At Old Post Office in Chicago, a landmark recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the goal was straightforward: create flexible training rooms without sacrificing ceiling height. In a historic building like this, preserving space and openness is just as important as adding functionality.
The team set out to create acoustically separate training rooms without compromising the openness that makes the space so unique. Designed by Partners by Design, constructed by Skender, and installed by Modernfold Chicago, the project came together.
This is where Skyfold Zenith made the difference.
Two Skyfold Zenith two-wall, one-motor systems were installed along existing column lines, allowing the space to be subdivided into multiple training rooms. Each operable wall delivers an impressive 55 STC rating, enabling simultaneous meetings, presentations, or training sessions without sacrificing speech privacy. When not in use, the walls retract vertically into the ceiling, maintaining valuable floor space and instantly transforming the layout back into one expansive training environment.
What truly sets this project apart is how the team tackled a significant overhead obstacle. An existing duct ran perpendicular to the wall’s path, an issue that could have compromised both function and ceiling height. Instead of working around it in a conventional way, the solution was engineered with precision. The support steel was segmented at the duct, and a spliced panel design was introduced, allowing the system to clear-span the obstruction while still picking up structural support on each side.
This project stands as a clear example of what differentiates Skyfold. It’s not just about operable walls; it’s about solving complex spatial challenges with tailored engineering, without compromise.
Skyfold doesn’t just divide space. It redefines how space works.