Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management

Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management w l hall company skyfold mckeon 1
Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management

We take pride in collaborating with leading architects and contractors to transform ambitious design concepts into high-performing, real-world spaces. A recent example is our work alongside BWBR Architects (St. Paul) and JE Dunn Construction (Minneapolis) on the auditorium revitalization at the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management.

An Integrated Building Systems Approach

To achieve the desired performance, safety, and design outcomes, the project required integrating two complementary building systems—an approach we frequently employ on complex projects where a single solution cannot fully address all objectives.

By thoughtfully combining a high-performing vertically folding partition wall with a code-compliant fire and life-safety door, the auditorium now supports flexible programming, meets stringent functional and acoustic requirements, and preserves the original design intent.
Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management w l hall company skyfold mckeon 10

Skyfold® Zenith® 60 Vertical Acoustic Retractable Wall


We installed a Skyfold Model Zenith® 60 vertical retracting partition wall, delivering a tested STC 60 sound rating to support multiple room configurations within the auditorium.


A standout feature of this installation is the custom mural applied directly to the Skyfold panels, featuring the University of Minnesota’s iconic “M” logo. The artwork was applied by Studio Graetz, allowing institutional branding to become an integrated architectural element rather than an applied graphic.

Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management w l hall company skyfold mckeon 11

Skyfold Advantages for Carlson School of Management Auditorium

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Superior acoustic separation (STC 60) for lectures, presentations, and concurrent events

Vertical-rising operation that eliminates floor tracks and preserves a clean auditorium floor

Flexible space planning that allows one auditorium to function as multiple rooms

Fully motorized system that enables smooth, effortless operation

Seamless integration of custom graphics without compromising system performance

Durable, reliable operation suited for high-use academic environments

Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management w l hall company skyfold mckeon 13

McKEON® Model AC8814CP Accordion Folding Fire Door


To complement the Skyfold system and address fire and life-safety requirements, we installed a McKEON side-folding accordion fire door, Model AC8814CP, in a bi-parting configuration.

This system folds laterally like an accordion, allowing large openings to clear efficiently while minimizing required pocket space. The door is powered with a fail-safe design that automatically closes in the event of a fire alarm or power loss, maintaining required code-compliant fire and smoke separation with egress, providing a reliable exit path during emergency conditions.

Design Intent Delivered through Integrated Systems at Carlson School of Management w l hall company skyfold mckeon 14

McKEON Advantages for Carlson School of Management Auditorium


Code-compliant fire and smoke separation when required

Bi-parting configuration for wide, unobstructed openings

Compact side-folding design with minimal visual impact when stowed

Powered operation with automatic fail-safe closing

Proven performance in demanding educational and assembly occupancies

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If you’re planning a project where acoustics, space management flexibility, safety, and architectural expression all matter, our team is ready to help bring your design vision to life.


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