Boldly Building: The Future of Architecture in Star Trek Using Accordion Glass Walls

By NanaWall Systems, December 13, 2023

accordion glass walls

In the expansive universe of one like "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds," as the final frontier stretches beyond imagination, one element bridges the gap between futuristic fantasy and contemporary reality –  accordion glass walls by NanaWall that are unparalleled in both commercial and residential performance from commercial buildings to high-rise living. As the world eagerly anticipates the newest release of "Strange New Worlds" premiering in 2024, and as "Star Trek: Discovery" gears up for its final season, we begin to see a perfect alignment of cinematic grandeur and architectural innovation.

Star trek with NanaWall accordion glass walls

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds image courtesy of CBS Studios and Paramount+

The Intersection of Cinematic Vision and Architectural Innovation

In the gripping season ender of "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" Season 2, viewers are transported to a climactic scene of a city in upheaval, where this expansive opening glass wall stands as a silent yet powerful protagonist. Amidst the chaos of a futuristic city's explosion and destruction, these accordion glass walls offer a clear, unobstructed view of the unfolding drama, symbolizing safety, and resilience in a world teetering on the edge of destruction. This metaphorical representation of NanaWall systems as indestructible guardians resonates deeply with their real-world persona – a beacon of strength, innovation, and futuristic design. In this high-stakes narrative, these accordion glass walls represent the epitome of durability and clear vision, even in the most tumultuous times.

mixed use building with NanaWall glass wall systems

Image: www.onekingwest.com

The Architectural Icon: One King West

The real-life location of this cinematic representation is the iconic One King West Hotel and Residence in Ontario, Canada. This marvel was once the headquarters of The Dominion Bank. Known as the "Sliver Tower" due to its slender height-to-width ratio, it stands 51 stories and 176.2 meters (578 feet) tall. It is one of the tallest residential and commercial buildings in Canada and one of Toronto's top-10 signature skyscrapers with downtown and Lake Ontario views. Here, the accordion glass walls are integral to the building's identity. Uniquely positioned on the 15th floor, the Fifteen Hundred suite is a versatile downtown venue space used for meetings, weddings, events, and film and TV productions. The south-facing floor-to-ceiling glass wall can be fully retracted, offering unobstructed access to the private outdoor terrace and sweeping city views. The architect and owner made smart decisions to create this destination venue worthy of catching the eye of notable filmmakers and event designers with its awe-striking cityscape vista. Accordion glass walls create the safety barrier and view seen in the show but also a memorable destination that opens to the skyline for the indoor-outdoor experience all while providing the benefits of fresh air, natural daylight, and business ROI. 

NanaWall accordion glass wall systems in snow

All-Season Performance: Commercially Tested and Proven Accordion Glass Walls

The NanaWall systems' real-world strength lies in their all-weather durability and tested performance. These accordion glass walls have been independently tested and thermally broken to withstand diverse climatic conditions, ensuring reliability and comfort regardless of weather including wind-driven rain, snow, and heavy wind loads. Backed by rigorous independent testing, these systems provide peace of mind in residential and commercial settings. Whether it's the blistering heat of summer or the icy chill of winter, this SL70 system provides a consistent, unyielding barrier that neither compromises performance nor protection. Just like in the dramatic scenes of Star Trek, they offer safety and tranquility during nature's unpredictability. Expertly engineered glass wall systems have survived the test of time—quite literally. Highly durable and designed for high-traffic areas, system swing doors have been tested for an impressive 500,000 cycles without failure. Systems offer advanced security features like concealed, rattle-free locking systems, and compatibility with panic hardware. They help differentiate commercial buildings, create better investment opportunities, and increase ROI, and property value. 

commercial venue space with accordion glass wall

Redefining Space & Functionality: The Future of Architectural Design

At the forefront of this architectural stunner are the accordion glass walls that are fully customizable and configurable solutions. These systems are not just about creating spaces; they are about redefining them. The sleek aesthetics and ease of operation make them a favorite among architects, developers, and owners alike. Whether in a commercial building, multifamily living, or a hotel, these walls redefine how we interact with our surroundings. In "Strange New Worlds," the NanaWall system serves as a protective barrier against a fictional world's perils. Paralleled in reality, these systems provide safety without sacrificing the luxury of unobstructed views. The unique blend of security and beauty is what sets these opening glass wall systems apart in performance for both architectural and cinematic marvels. Versatile and mixed-use commercial buildings like One King West, which use folding glass walls in their design, increase profitability for both owners and developers.

easy to operate NanaWall accordion glass door in snow

Tailor-made for Iconic Moments Beyond the Screen

The versatility of accordion glass walls extends beyond their practical application; they are the perfect fit for turning everyday life into iconic cinematic moments. The Star Trek series showcases how these walls frame and enhance dramatic scenes, proving their worth as a background element and integral to the storytelling. This seamless integration of form and function makes these systems the ideal architectural solution. While the Star Trek series offers a glimpse into a future world, accordion glass walls bring a piece of that future into today's urban and residential landscapes. Their sleek design and unparalleled functionality make them a popular choice for modern cityscapes, where the blending of and access to indoor and outdoor space is increasingly desired. From commercial buildings to high-rise apartments and luxury homes, these systems redefine spaces, offering a taste of the future in the present day.

commercial building with NanaWall venue space

Final Thoughts

As we continue to push the boundaries of architecture, design, and technology, accordion glass walls embody the spirit of innovation and futuristic vision. They symbolize a future where design, safety, and aesthetics merge seamlessly. NanaWall Systems continues to forge a path in both the realms of architecture and popular culture. 

Join us in our journey to redefine spaces and experiences. Explore our inspiration gallery to discover how NanaWall systems can transform your next project into a futuristic marvel.