Quiet days, gleaming glass
One of the standout features of the NACT’s south-facing facade is its undulating glass wall. Evoking the gentle ridges of a traditional Japanese lantern, the wall is adorned with over 3,000 glass louvers, which are horizontally placed panels that softly filter daylight into the center while reducing solar heat.
Each of these glass panels is meticulously cleaned by hand as part of a process that takes an entire year to complete and is repeated annually. On Tuesdays when the center is closed to the public, experienced window cleaning technicians can be seen working from gondolas suspended from the roof, carefully polishing the delicate louvers with both speed and precision. Because the glass is fragile, great care is taken during the rinse, wipe, and repeat process. Technicians bring piles of dust cloths to ensure that no trace of dirt or grime remains.
These skilled professionals work quietly behind the scenes to keep the center’s iconic facade looking its best. While the center may appear quiet on its closed days, these are in fact essential times for cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the space is pristine and ready to welcome you for a comfortable and inspiring visit.