Google BrandLab is an exclusive workshop space designed to help top-tier clients leverage and optimize their digital brand presence in an ever-evolving media landscape. To engage and inspire BrandLab visitors, our patrons at Google commissioned Iontank and Uncorked Studios to collaborate on a unique feature wall that would greet guests upon their arrival.

Iontank helmed the prototyping, system design, integration and physical fabrication. The unusual format required Iontank to integrate custom square touch screens, fabricate detailed modular cubby interiors with richly saturated LEDs and challenged us to mechanically actuate every one of the 21 units so they will slide open magically upon command. The rich material palette contrasted reclaimed lumber against crisp white solid-surface monitors bezels that we milled and assembled with exacting tolerances.

Full-scale staging, bench testing and burn-in of all hardware and mechanical systems were facilitated at Iontank’s studio so the programming team would have the opportunity to pre-flight the software and shake out any lingering bugs prior to shipment. When the time for deployment came, Iontank packed the delicate components in custom cases for transit and followed our shipment to San Bruno for the installation. With only a small window of opportunity for the install, Iontank coordinated our work with the structural engineer, facilities teams and local tradesmen to be sure everything came together as planned.

Watching all the hidden cubbies with vibrant glowing interiors reveal themselves to BrandLab visitors is truly magical and especially satisfying given the tremendous amount of love and labor that went into this installation.