Just as new shapes and methods were developed in build-ing design during the transition from wooden construction to solid construction at the beginning of the 17th century, insulation construction techniques are also gradually developing their own aesthetic appeal. In their now-completed research project, Faraneh Farnoudi and Andreas Hild focused on the subject of design possibilities, giving significant momentum to the debate.
In contrast to mere embellishments, the modern conception of ornamentation has real significance. It conveys a poetic, explanatory, historical, or symbolic message – but it is more than just decor. It is an expression of individual architectural design and, as a product of a digital process chain, is characterised either by serial precision or by uniqueness. Using the mineral material Verolith, modern facade elements establish a contemporary iconography of the facade.
Mineral-filled acrylic glass (PMMA) can do significantly more than “normal” plexiglass could before. It can be shaped as required and seamlessly bonded; it is weather and UV-resistant, and simple to clean. What’s more, it’s easy to install and doesn’t need to be reground on the construction site. In short: it’s the perfect solution for rainscreen cladding facade constructions. And it’s ideal as a media facade.
There is an increasing demand for natural protection against algae and fungi on the facade without biocidal film preservative. The new StoSilco blue finishing render for the StoTherm Classic S1 non-combustible facade insulation system inhibits microorganisms from attacking by using natural principles that include optimising the water balance and reducing bioavailability.
Five different types of limestone, three coordinating formats, and direct application to the insulation system all make for a great level of variety on the facade. The natural stone slabs approved for the StoTherm Mineral and StoTherm Vario facade insulation systems make it possible to combine modern thermal protection with timeless beauty and durability.
A small insect inspired researchers to develop an exceptionally water-repellent facade paint, which is also Ger-many’s first CO2-neutral facade coating. StoColor Dryonic diverts rain and condensation away in a targeted manner thanks to its microtextured surface, ensuring a clean and dry facade without the need for biocidal film preservative.
Rooms are different and are used for different purposes; that’s why every room needs individual acoustic concepts. The StoSilent product programme offers four tried-and-test systems whose variations ensure acoustic wellbeing – in schools, offices, and quiet areas alike.
Open and full of light, with a clear view to the outside. These were the requirements for the new cafeteria at the German-Spanish Primary School in Hamburg. It also had to be protected from the heat of the sun’s rays and the cold of the winter, and be resistant to errant footballs. For these reasons, architects Knaack & Prell rejected exterior blinds right from the start.
170 square metres of space for conferences and private functions under an arched roof of dimmable glass without any sun blinds – can it work? The proof that it can is provided by the former castle at Störmede (part of the town of Geseke, North Rhine-Westphalia). The turbulent history of the building goes all the way back to the 13th century but until recently only the weathered remains of its thick walls provided any clues to its ancestry.
The research campus Berlin-Buch is one of the most important science and technology sites in Berlin-Brandenburg. The area measuring about 320,000 square meters is now the home of more than 50 research facilities, hospitals and biotech companies. This is also where the internationally operating “Eckert & Ziegler AG” is located.
