Omantel Headquarters

Grankraft fabricated and installed the 316 AISI type stainless steel mesh façade wrapping around the two office buildings with an overall area of 10,000m².  The mesh façade is supported by a mild steel framework that is anchored to the primary reinforced concrete structure. The mesh is flexible in one direction and weighs 1.06lbs per sqf and its open area is 50%. The metal mesh is not only the key feature of the building that gives it a distinct character, but it also provides an efficient solar protection with unblocked views of the outside surroundings for all the internal spaces. Aesthetically the play of light, shadow, and reflections created by the mesh give the building its distinct character. The wavy façade form is illuminated by arranged flexible LED profiles installed on the mesh grid.

Having used 316 grade stainless steel also minimises the cost of maintenance as the stainless steel may become soiled by the deposition of airborne dirt which is especially important in the Omani climate. However, the cleaning process is relatively easy, and the frequency can be as little as 1-2 times per year depending on the aesthetic requirements of the project. These aspects of the maintenance needed to be considered during the design stage in order to not only pick the right type of mesh but also to allow maintenance access.