HDG Magazine Winter Issue 2023

Green House, London

Kittiwake Nesting Tower, Gateshead

Stables Yard, London

Quarry Redevelopment, Switzerland

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The full diversity of galvanized steel is again featured within our winter edition of HDG magazine.

Amongst our many enticing articles, three in particular, raise important design concepts for the future.

Green House – takes inspiration from the natural history and lush character of its site to develop a modern energy-efficient domestic property. It encompasses a green façade of galvanized steel and sliding polycarbonate screens. The facade is planted with bamboo, which will softly filter the daylight whilst maintaining privacy and provide solar shading on hot summer days. The concept of materials and structures that could be left 'as is' was an important element of material choice.

Kittiwake Nesting Tower – It’s surprising that, at face value, such a simple design solution can have very important consequences for us all. This rather inventive – modular, movable, and adaptable tower design allows windfarms around our coast to obtain planning permission. It provides nesting structures for kittiwakes, that help the birds increase their fledging success rates, this is now legally required to compensate for any impact our wind farms may have on seabird populations.

Stables Yard – If we do need to build within a floodplain, Stables Yard is the way to go. A network of galvanized steel helps with securing ground conditions and the avoidance of losing a large area of land for rainwater soakaway. In addition, it provides a 80 year lifespan to the steel.

Have a good read!

Iqbal Johal, Editor

Hot Dip Galvanizing – An international journal published jointly by the galvanizing associations of Germany, United Kingdom & Ireland.

Edited by: I. Johal, S. Pick

Published by: Galvanizers Association, Wren’s Court, 56 Victoria Road, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B72 1SY, UK; Tel: +44 (0) 121 355 8838

E-Mail: ga@hdg.org.uk, Website: www.galvanizing.org.uk

This magazine may not be copied without the written permission of the editor © 2023.

Photo front cover | Kilian O'Sullivan

by Iqbal Johal

Effortless Elegance

Green House, London

The Green House design takes inspiration from the natural history and lush character of its site, presenting a modern and energy-efficient reinterpretation of a domestic-scale greenhouse. It serves as a family home that blurs the distinctions between indoor and outdoor spaces, initiating a vibrant transformation of a previously neglected area.

Situated within Tottenham's Clyde Circus Conservation Area, the current site, which was once home to orchards, greenhouses, and market gardens, now resides between two-storey brick houses constructed in the 2000s. The redesign of this location provided an opportunity for a photographer, a teacher, and their two young children, to connect with the site's history.

With a limited budget of under £3,000 per m2, it was aimed to create a five-bedroom home that maximized living space and provided a sense of height and access to nature. The chosen 'block' form of the house not only proved to be constructionally efficient but also supported the house's fossil-fuel-free design. It utilizes an air-source heat pump for heating and incorporates solar panels on the roof to fulfill electricity needs.

1 | The design for Green House provides a contemporary and low energy re-imagining of a domestic-scale greenhouse

2 | A central, top-lit, riad-style atrium connects all living spaces, upstairs and downstairs, bringing daylight into the heart of the house

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The Tottenham Riad, a central, top-lit, riad-style atrium, serves as the connective element for all living spaces, both upstairs and downstairs. This feature brings natural light into the heart of the house, a solution where side-facing windows would have been impractical due to the proximity of neighbouring properties. The atrium also aids in cooling the house through passive stack ventilation on hot days.

The design seamlessly integrates living spaces with the surrounding landscape, ensuring that every area within the house enjoys views of the sky or greenery. Double-aspect views extend to front and rear gardens, as well as the surrounding woodland and trees, fostering a sense of openness that links the interior with the exterior. The curtains, enveloping the entire atrium, not only create an impressive double-height dining hall but also contribute to acoustic absorption within the internal spaces.

For the south-facing green façade, a galvanized steel support frame was employed. Adorned with bamboo and featuring sliding polycarbonate-clad screens reminiscent of the site's historical greenhouses, this façade softly filters daylight, maintains privacy, and provides solar shading on warm summer days. The sliding screens, hung on substantial agricultural galvanized sliding door tracks, empower the occupants to manage views both in and out. Galvanized steel was selected for the façade framing primarily due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. This was particularly important due to the irrigation installed for the planting.

[Content provided by Hayhurst and Co.]

3 + 4 |Galvanized steel was used for the support frame for the south-facing green façade

5 | Double-aspect views are created throughout the house to front and rear gardens and the surrounding woodlands

Architects | Hayhurst and Co.

Photos | Kilian O'Sullivan

by Sabrina Pick

Modern Engineering

Braila Bridge, Romania

In the vicinity of the bustling port city of Braila, Romania, stands a testament to modern engineering - the newly constructed Braila Bridge. Not only does it mark the first structure to span the maritime Danube in Romania, but it also holds the distinction of being the country's longest suspension bridge, boasting an impressive total length of 1,974 m. This architectural feat is set to enhance connectivity between the Galați-Brăila and Consțanța regions, as well as between the Moldavia and Muntenia regions and Dobruja.

1 | Romania's longest suspension bridge, boasting an impressive total length of 1,974 m

With a main span of 1,120 m and a width of 31.7 m, the bridge not only provides ample space for vehicular traffic but also allows for a clearance height of 38 m for maritime passage. The two access viaducts of the bridge extend over a length of 110 m. The total cost of the project is estimated at approximately € 435 million, encompassing not only the access viaducts but also a 23 km connecting road.

The specially designed expansion joints for the bridge deck play a pivotal role in realising this monumental structure. Of particular note are the substantial TENSA®MODULAR LR19 and LR23 expansion joints, designed by mageba. These partially hot dip galvanized structural elements can accommodate movements of up to 2.3 m – a dimension unique to such structures.

The access viaducts of the bridge were equipped with 24 RESTON®SPHERICAL bearings, horizontally installed on both sides of the structure. For added flexibility, four single-cell TENSA®GRIP RS expansion joints were provided, along with two additional modular expansion joints. All products meet the highest standards of durability and ease of maintenance.

The Braila Bridge not only serves as a vital link in Romania's transportation network but also stands as a testament to cutting-edge engineering prowess.

To witness the journey of the expansion joints from Slovakia to Romania, watch the video.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xdbw30y2L4c&t=1s

2 | The hot dip galvanized structural elements can accommodate movements of up to 2.3 m

Engineers | mageba Services & Technology AG

Photos | Adobe Stock

© Daniel Chetroni

by Iqbal Johal

Adaptive Aviary

Kittiwake Nesting Tower, Gateshead

New offshore windfarms are now legally required to compensate for any impact their turbines may have on seabird populations. Nesting structures for kittiwakes, that help the birds increase their fledging success rates, are being built around our coast. ‘Kittiwakery’ was installed on the River Tyne, Gateshead in February 2023, as part of the 3GW Dogger Bank South offshore wind project.

FLI Structures in partnership with ecologists from Shoney Wind Ltd and kittiwake study programmes, have developed a flexible and modular galvanized steel design that delivers better performance than existing sites. Building these kittiwake nesting structures is in itself, not enough. They must work. Then, for the windfarms to retain their consent to output power, they must carry on working. Unfortunately, previously limited understanding of the bird’s needs and the microclimates around their nests; coupled with the inflexibility of these building’s designs meant that until now, they have typically failed.

The modular and adaptable nature of an open, bolted, galvanized steel structure, delivers the ability to refine or radically alter the tower to ensure both the initial and ongoing performance needed to fulfil the planning consent requirements of the offshore windfarms. The use of galvanized steel screw piles and a bolted, galvanized steel structure, means that when required, entire towers can be disassembled, unscrewed from the ground and moved to new sites.

The tower's flexibility allows for ongoing adjustments, ensuring optimal breeding success and addressing changes in environmental conditions. By enabling alterations to the layout of nest ledges, addition of nesting cabins, and even the relocation of an entire tower, the structure remains responsive to evolving requirements. This adaptability is pivotal in securing wind farm planning consent, allowing the structures to endure and perform over the long term.

1 | Galvanized nesting structures for kittiwakes help the birds increase their fledging success rates

2 | The structure has the ability to maintain an ideal nest microclimate, countering challenges posed by solar heat and wind-related cold stress intensified by climate change

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Galvanized steel is central to the tower’s success, not just for its practical and economic advantages but by enabling the key features that deliver the tower’s sustainability credentials:

• The modular and adaptable nature of an open, bolted structure to ensure both the initial and ongoing performance needed to fulfil the planning consent requirements of the offshore windfarms.

• Galvanized steel screw pile and grillage foundations are 100% reusable and recyclable. Limited excavation, no soil cart away and lighter plant required.

• Galvanizing delivers a major advantage over painted surfaces in these situations, with no joints stuck together or bolts full of paint.

• The kittiwake tower unlocks offshore wind consent impediments to help increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix and improve affordability.

Unlike previous structures hindered by limited understanding of avian requirements and inflexible designs, 'Kittiwakery' ensures sustained functionality amid changing landscapes. Instead, they stand as resilient and enduring contributors to the delicate balance between sustainable energy production and environmental conservation.

[Content provided by FLI Structures]

3 | The tower's modular and adaptable design ensures both the initial and ongoing performance needed to fulfil the planning consent requirements of offshore windfarms can be met

4 | Galvanized steel design surpasses the performance of existing sites, providing adaptable solutions tailored to diverse locations

Engineers| FLI Structures

Photos | FLI Structures

Critical to the success of the 'Kittiwakery' is its ability to maintain an ideal nest microclimate, countering challenges posed by solar heat and windrelated cold stress intensified by climate change.

by Sabrina Pick

Pioneering the Future

Driving Test Facility, Germany

In a former military shooting range, a unique project unfolded to create a state-of-the-art testing facility for autonomous driving technologies. The facility required a creative structural approach to navigate zoning regulations, height limits, and fire safety standards. This notable achievement highlights how clever engineering solutions can overcome complex challenges.

In order to facilitate planning constraints that included a maximum height of 8 m, a smart engineering solution emerged. The project called for a column-free layout for the testing track, presenting a distinctive challenge. To address this, a light truss type design was developed which not only met height restrictions but also established an unimpeded testing environment.

With exposure to the elements and an uncertain future enclosure, corrosion protection became crucial. Hot dip galvanizing was selected as the method of protection after careful evaluation. This process not only provided excellent corrosion resistance but also streamlined construction resulting in a win for forward-thinking engineering in the face of uncertainty.

Balancing innovative design with cost considerations was essential, especially in selecting structural materials. A thorough analysis was conducted to find the right balance. The result: an optimised galvanized steel frame design. This approach met structural demands while also proving to be a financially prudent solution.

This project showcases how efficient and effective engineering can overcome complex challenges. A cost-effective and robust solution was achieved even within the confines of stringent regulatory constraints.

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by Iqbal Johal

Symbolic Curves

Hydro Ness, Scotland

Hydro Ness is a new 93kW hydroelectric scheme, which uses historical infrastructure from a disused hydro scheme dating back to 1929, to generate over 500,000 kWh of renewable electricity each year for the nearby Inverness Leisure Centre. The successful fabrication and erection of this structure represents the versatility and flexibility of modern structural steelwork in the context of a unique and challenging project.

Inspired by the motif of the salmon gracefully navigating the scenic River Ness, the uniquely shaped structure was conceived by a local artist and further developed by an accomplished architect. The vision behind the project extends beyond its aesthetic appeal to underscore the advantages of this ancient source of renewable energy.

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1 | The inspiration for this interestingly shaped structure is to be found in the motif of the salmon, making its way upstream along the beautiful River Ness

2 | All the mild steel used throughout the project is galvanized for enhanced longevity and it contributes to the overall integrity of the project

3 | The primary frame of the structure consists of curved universal columns, each uniquely curved to varying radii

The collaborative effort involved multiple entities, working seamlessly to bring the prominent canopy structure and various utility structures on the site to fruition. Situated along a major route in and out of Inverness City, close attention was given to ensuring the final structure complemented its prominent and beautiful location in the Capital of the Highlands.

The primary frame of the structure consists of curved universal columns, each curved to varying radii, including elliptical segments of the main 'ribs.' The framing for the cladding panels is crafted from square hollow sections, meticulously welded into co-planar triangles. In total, there are 384 cladding panels, with each of these being unique. All the mild steel used throughout the project is galvanized for enhanced longevity and it contributes to the overall integrity of the project.

To fulfill the architectural vision of resembling fish scales, the canopy's cladding panels are fashioned from stainless steel with a swirl finish. The completion of this notable project stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the fabricator and the expertise of the steel erector, collaborating seamlessly with the architect, engineer, and main contractor.

It is hoped that Hydro Ness will become an iconic and renowned symbol of Inverness, worthy of its stunning Highland setting.

[Content provided by Hasson Structural Engineers]

Engineers | Hasson Structural Engineers

Photos | Keith Hunter

by Sabrina Pick

Urban Fusion

The Spore Initiative, Germany

The recently unveiled 'Spore Initiative' building, completed in late 2022, stands as a testament to thoughtful design in the heart of the lively Hermannstraße district, adjacent to the former Tempelhof Airport in Berlin's Neukölln district. Crafted with precision by the architectural firm AFF, this structure seamlessly integrates into its surroundings, nestled amidst expansive cemetery grounds and Gründerzeit-era blocks.

The architectural harmony of the building is a key highlight, adjusting gracefully to the heights of neighbouring structures while creating welcoming, open spaces in the urban realm. Notably, the design intentionally guides visitors towards the cemetery grounds, fostering a deliberate connection with the environment.

The 'Spore Initiative', established as a non-profit foundation in 2020, serves as both the user and client of the building. Its mission revolves around advocating for biocultural diversity through diverse cultural and educational programs, exclusively pursuing charitable purposes in the field of art and culture. The foundation's focus extends to groups and communities in the Global South, emphasizing a respectful relationship with nature. The building provides a versatile space for workshops, exhibitions, and conferences, aiming to implement a free, public educational and exchange program in collaboration with partners on both national and international scales.

The internal structure is characterized by a strategic stacking of various functions. The ground floor is dedicated to a spacious public area, the first floor to exhibition spaces, and the upper two floors to offices, a library, and apartments. This thoughtful organization is mirrored in the external appearance, where a meticulous selection of materials and purposeful use of openings contribute to an engaging façade. The materials, including reddish-toned exposed concrete on the ground floor and Imperial format bricks on the exhibition floor above, come together to form a cohesive ensemble, presenting a unified aesthetic.

A distinctive feature is the preservation and showcase of the existing, heritage-protected cemetery wall on the northern end of the building. This element is seamlessly integrated into the exposed concrete façade of the ground floor, adding historical and visual significance.

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The design concept extends to the ground floor, where an innovative 'Spore Ceiling' spans the entire space. This column-free ceiling construction serves both structurally optimised and identity-defining purposes. Collaborations with the structural engineers and the architects resulted in a honeycomb-like structure within the ceiling. Monolithic cores of exposed concrete bear the loads of the ceiling, housing functions such as a café, changing rooms, or additional exhibition space. The open café area and auditorium seamlessly blend as open-use areas with the foyer, fostering a dynamic and flexible environment.

Galvanized components play a crucial role in the structural and aesthetic aspects of the building, finding their place in staircases and various public areas. Safety railings in stairwells, handrails, and functionally separating elements such as doors, partitions, and rolling gates are seamlessly integrated using steel elements with galvanized surfaces.

The attention to detail is evident in several special features and versatile applications, including the honeycomb-patterned rolling grille curtain, application as fall protection and infill in stairwell openings, handrails and balustrades, and the inventive use of industrial finished products reimagined in a new context. Noteworthy collaborations led to unique applications in public restrooms, from steel profiles and cladding of WC partitions to folded and welded details for consoles.

The galvanized elements extend to various areas, including inner door leaves with steel corner frames, enclosures for ventilation units on the roof, cladding of elevator cabins and doors, and an enclosure for the skylight in the atrium on the roof terrace.

The careful consideration of details, from the visibility of screws and welds to the enduring surface that develops a patina over time, contributes to the special aesthetic appeal of the building. Beyond the visual aspect, the galvanized components offer practical advantages, and all these elements come together cohesively, creating a unified structure. The building stands not just as a structure but as a thoughtfully crafted space that harmonizes urbanity with purposeful design, embodying the mission and vision of its user and client.

1 | Galvanized infill panels, handrails and balustrades, serve as both functional and spatial separation elements

2 + 3 | Galvanized elements extend to various areas, including inner door leaves with steel corner frames and cladding of elevator cabins and doors

4 | The building provides a versatile space for workshops, exhibitions, and conferences

Architects | AFF Architekten GmbH Photos | Hans-Christian Schink

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by Iqbal Johal

Sustainable Serenity

Stables Yard, London

Nestled on the Beckenham borders, this collection of six semi-detached sustainable residences presents a serene retreat. Crafted for future-proof living, these homes, showcasing Stolon Studio's architectural design, embody thoughtful spaces, abundant light, discreet entrances, and elegantly functional kitchens and bathrooms.

1 | A quiet haven of six semidetached sustainable new homes on the Beckenham borders

2 | Galvanizing ensures the longevity of the steel structures, guaranteeing an 80-year lifespan

In addressing the unique challenges posed by the site's susceptibility to potential flooding and unsuitable ground conditions for standard concrete foundations, the environmental agency and architect devised an innovative solution. The first phase involved the installation of 81 galvanized 6 m long helical piles with pile caps. Subsequently, a grid of galvanized steel beams, covering an area of approximately 450 m2, was fixed to the pile caps. This grid not only accommodates a raised walkway to the front and small rear terraces for each house but also features ribbed galvanized floor decking integrated into the steel web for the creation of the concrete floor deck.

The decision to employ galvanized materials was strategic, primarily driven by the challenging ground conditions and the imperative to avoid sacrificing a substantial land area for rainwater soakaway. Galvanizing the steel ensured the longevity of the structures, guaranteeing an impressive 80-year lifespan.

Elevating the concept of sustainability, these residences boast air source heat pumps, solar panels, cutting-edge insulation, and triple glazing, resulting in minimal heating costs. Dedicated parking bays equipped with individual electric vehicle (EV) charging points underscore the commitment to eco-friendly practices, complemented by fully recyclable aluminum decking.

Each freehold residence, constructed to impeccable standards and attaining a SAP 'A' rating for energy efficiency, stands as a unique testament to modern living. Beyond offering unrivaled convenience with proximity to Kent House train station in Beckenham, these homes are ensconced within their own secure community.

[Content provided by Interco Contracts]

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heat pumps, solar panels, cutting-edge insulation, and triple glazing results in minimal heating costs

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by Sabrina Pick

Living Amidst Nature

Quarry Redevelopment, Switzerland

In the serene landscape of Feldbrunnen-St. Niklaus, a dormant quarry has been transformed into a residential masterpiece, redefining the boundaries of modern living. This visionary project replaces an existing single-family home with two sleek residential cubes, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding natural environment. Drawing inspiration from neoplastic design principles, this development aims to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings.

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| The two sleek residential cubes, seamlessly integrate with the surrounding natural environment

The core design principle of the project was to blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Frameless windows and seamless flooring create a visual connection to the natural surroundings, offering residents an immersive living experience. This deliberate design choice challenges traditional ideas of living spaces.

Guided by neoplastic design principles, known for a harmonious geometric aesthetic, the houses comprise of strategically configured residential cubes with various apartment sizes. Each unit provides panoramic views of the environment, ensuring that every resident can enjoy the natural beauty around them, creating a unique living experience.

The quarry's distinctive geometric features are mirrored in the galvanized steel façade, creating a visual link between the natural rock formations and the residential structures. Composed of hot dip galvanized steel panels, each piece is carefully arranged to mirror the quarry's fractured edges, resulting in a visually dynamic experience as the sun moves across the sky.

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Material choice is crucial in achieving the project's naturally inspired aesthetic. Hot dip galvanized steel panels are strategically installed on an aluminium substructure. This integration not only highlights the raw beauty of the material but also ensures its longevity and durability.

By embracing neoplastic design principles and incorporating hot dip galvanized steel, this project pays homage to the quarry's history and sets a benchmark for harmonious integration with the natural environment. The interplay of materials demonstrates how architectural design can repurpose neglected spaces.

2 | Each unit provides panoramic views of the environment creating a unique living experience

3 + 4 | The quarry's distinctive geometric features are mirrored in the galvanized steel façade, creating a visual link between the natural rock formations and the residential structures

Architects | ssm Architekten AG

Photos | ssm Architekten

by Iqbal Johal

Innovative Infrastructure

Merthyr Tydfil Bus Station, Wales

Situated in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil, a striking example of sustainable transport infrastructure has taken root, setting new benchmarks for Wales. The bus station, a product of meticulous planning and execution, not only adhered to deadlines and budgetary constraints but achieved 100% customer satisfaction. Introducing a groundbreaking feature, it stands as Wales' inaugural electric vehicle charging station, seamlessly aligning with the Welsh Government's ambitious goal of an all-electric public transport system by 2028.

The funding, graciously provided by the Welsh Government, underscores their dedication to a greener future. The station, a manifestation of sustainable design, entirely avoids reliance on gas or fossil fuels. Its heating and hot water systems derive from renewable sources, complemented by a rainwater harvesting mechanism catering to the facility's sanitation needs.

The two-storey steel-framed primary structure spans an impressive 1,130 m2. Its distinct zinc roof pays homage to the iconic Cyfarthfa ironworks, a poignant reference to the town's rich heritage. Over a third of the structural steel was galvanized for corrosion protection, forming the outer layer of the structure.

The ground floor accommodates 11 internal stands, including a coach-accessible bay, prioritizing convenience for the public. Bathed in natural light, the modern public concourse features expansive glass façades. Every inch of the space is designed for accessibility, ensuring a seamless experience for all, with flat or ramped flooring. A kiosk, café, and public restrooms enhance the station's convenience. Ascending to the second floor reveals a spacious area for the main bus operator, complete with mess facilities.

Externally, the station offers three additional stands and four electric charging points tailored for taxis. A commitment to sustainability permeated every aspect of this project. Guided by circular economy principles, the team incorporated recycled natural stone and timber soffits into the design. The building's layered construction promises hassle-free maintenance and eventual deconstruction and reuse, aligning with a forward-looking environmental vision.

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The adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) played a pivotal role in the project's success. It facilitated precise mapping of underground services, intricate roof design, and seamless coordination of complex services arrangements, all while reinforcing the circular economy strategy.

The collaborative efforts of the team navigated intricate logistical challenges. The site, intersected by three major highways and five pedestrian routes, successfully maintained the flow of the bustling city centre. The team coordinated with public realm and infrastructure projects, further enhancing the accessibility and functionality of the area. The Merthyr Tydfil Bus Station has been a source of social value, injecting over £9.5 million into the local community. A robust social value strategy, in tandem with the council, ensured that 94% of expenditures remained local.

[Content provided by Shufflebottom Ltd]

1 | The two-storey steel-framed primary structure spans an impressive 1,130 m2

2 | Bathed in natural light, the modern public concourse features expansive glass façades

3 | The original concept for the project was realised with the completed structure

by Sabrina Pick

Architectural Marvel

Vierte Wand Observation Tower, Austria

In the scenic UNESCO World Heritage Region of Wachau, Lower Austria, the municipality of Rossatz-Arnsdorf took on a special project - replacing an old observation tower on Seekopf. The goal was twofold: preserve the stunning views of the Danube and mountains and add cultural significance to this natural gem.

Seven artists and designer groups teamed up to design the winning creation, 'Vierte Wand' (Fourth Wall), which stood out for its clear vision and seamless fit with the surroundings.

The 'Vierte Wand' observation tower's remarkable clarity of design and integration into the surrounding natural environment are a testament to the seamless blend of form and function. The name 'Vierte Wand' is derived from the world of theatre, describing the imaginary boundary between the stage and the audience, introducing a dramatic element to the experience.

The tower's staircase ascends in a winding fashion, gracefully layered over a structure of hot dip galvanized steel, concealed beneath Larch wood slats. This clever design conceals one side of the open steel structure, directing the gaze towards the encompassing woodland. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panorama of Seekopf on the 15 m high viewing platform, a spectacle that is truly awe-inspiring. The stratification of the four flights of stairs on each level ensures that the ascent is not just a climb up a tower, but a seamless continuation of the wander through the vineyard terraces.

Galvanized steel not only ensures the longevity of the 'Vierte Wand' observation tower but also enhances its architectural credentials helping to showcase the seamless blend of form and function within a stunning landscape.

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1 | The 15 m high viewing platform offers a breathtaking panorama of Seekopf

2 | The tower's staircase ascends in a winding fashion, gracefully layered over a structure of hot dip galvanized steel, concealed beneath Larch wood slats

Architects | Eldine Heep & Klemens Schillinger, Manfred Karl

Photos | Leonhard Hilzensauer

by Oliver Pickartz

Modern and Modular

Hagen's Open-Air Museum, Germany

Hagen's LWL Open-Air Museum has added a striking entrance point to the existing museum grounds. This new structure blends seamlessly with the historical buildings with an internal focus on exposed steel. From substructure to floors, ceilings, and façades, galvanized steel ensures that timeless design remains eternally relevant.

Nestled amidst the beauty of the southwest Westphalian landscape, the entrance building is a central point for visitors and hikers. It also serves as the starting point for an electric tram, poised to make the museum grounds universally accessible.

Minimally invasive and sustainable, the building was designed to harmoniously integrate with its surroundings. Systems ensure that rainwater is returned to the brook. The sloping roof surfaces also provide ample space for photovoltaic installations.

In the selection of building materials, emphasis was placed on their ability to be disassembled into individual components for reuse, recycling, as well as on materials with extended lifespans. Galvanized steel can be found in the steel structure,

1 | Press gratings on the ground surrounding the building and in the ceiling are galvanized to create playful light reflections

2 | The new modern entrance blends seamlessly with the historical structures

3 | The design aesthetic is seen in the interior along with galvanized details in furnishings and built-in solutions

4 | The interior illustrates how galvanized steel can create a streamlined and modern look without compromising warmth and comfort

including the supports and purlins. Press gratings on the ground surrounding the building and in the ceiling are also galvanized, creating playful light reflections. Galvanized steel also serves as a distinctive design element in the façade. This design aesthetic is seen in the interior along with galvanized details in furnishings and built-in solutions. The architects' aspirations for longevity are reinforced by the galvanized steel, which adds a characteristic visual appeal to the building, symbolizing purposeful progress.

Flexibility takes centre stage not only in terms of accessibility and sustainability, but also in the building's design. Despite its sharp angles, it is dynamic thanks to modular elements both internally and externally. A furniture concept developed specifically for this project emphasizes the design elements and ensures maximum adaptability in use.

The interior vividly illustrates how galvanized steel can create a streamlined and modern look without compromising warmth and comfort. The combination of metal with the light European oak wood in a sun-drenched space offers visitors to the historical museum, an opportunity for a forward-looking and optimistic perspective.

Architects | Schnoklake Betz Dömer Architekten Photos | Caspar Sessler

by Iqbal Johal

Sustainable Artistry

Brent Cross Town Substation, London

The Brent Cross Town Substation is a beacon of sustainable development, where environmental, social, and economic factors are equally prioritized. As part of one of the largest urban regeneration projects in Europe, this substation plays a critical role in achieving Brent Cross Town's net zero carbon ambition by 2030. It will provide clean energy to 6,700 new homes, offices, retail, and leisure spaces.

More than just functional infrastructure, the substation is a piece of public art. The colourful wrap around the substation, titled 'Here we come, Here we rise,' turns it into a vibrant landmark reflecting the spirit of the local community. Positioned prominently next to London's North Circular Road and the M1 motorway and adjacent to Thameslink railway lines and the

new Brent Cross West station, the substation will be seen by up to six million people each year from road and rail alone.

The project follows circular economy principles, choosing materials based on their carbon impact and reducing waste through material reuse. The wrap structure incorporates about 40% reused steel and low-carbon concrete. Natural ventilation is embraced, and the steelwork is hot dip galvanized to ensure durability in open-air conditions.

Beyond its functional aspects, the project revitalizes brownfield land, introducing a biodiverse embankment, newly planted trees, and a wildflower meadow. This creates a natural setting for the artwork, enhances biodiversity, and connects with the broader green infrastructure in the area.

The substation represents sustainability by balancing social, economic, and environmental benefits. It serves as a piece of public art, supports Brent Cross's regeneration, and contributes to net-zero carbon targets through the use of lowcarbon materials and resource reuse. Its success showcases innovative approaches to sustainable development.

[Content provided by Arup and IF_DO]

1 | The substation serves as a piece of public art, supports Brent Cross's regeneration, and contributes to net-zero carbon targets through the use of low-carbon materials and resource reuse

Design Team| Arup, IF_DO and artist

Lakwena

Photos | John Sturrock, used courtesy of Brent Cross Town

by Sabrina Pick

Revitalizing Spaces

Garage

Transformation, Germany

In 2023, the conversion of a garage into office space was successfully completed in the picturesque Breitbrunn am Ammersee. The project came to fruition amidst the global pandemic, where the dynamics of work shifted towards the integration of home offices within residential spaces. This transformation, persisting even in a post-pandemic era, embodies a shift in our approach to the contemporary work environment.

To harmonize the realms of living and working, the workspace found its new home within an existing double garage. This adaptation not only optimises existing space but also avoids the need for additional land use and construction.

Towards the rear of the garage, a small annex was introduced, housing an entrance, WC, and a quaint telephone booth. This thoughtful allocation ensures that the front section remains exclusively devoted to productive work. The substitution of the garage door with a translucent polycarbonate façade ushers in an abundance of natural light while safeguarding privacy from passersby. A strategically placed opening in the wall grants a serene view of the courtyard, while a newly installed skylight casts a glow onto the office space, allowing the sun to mark the progression of time.

While the exterior brick walls retained their original insulation, enhancements were made to the roof and windows for improved energy efficiency. Internally, a practical drywall system was adopted, with the dry screed intentionally left exposed and sealed. The outer shell of the annex boasts galvanized metal panels, typically reserved for fire-resistant drywall partitions. These panels were connected with drywall profiles. Illumination is suspended from

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the ceiling via galvanized cable trays. Aesthetically, the furniture adds an industrial charm, with the table and stools crafted from galvanized pressed grates, providing a captivating contrast to the sleek, metallic surfaces of the office space.

The value of everyday, robust, and enduring materials, enhanced by their application, treatment, and composition encourages the idea of sufficiency and suggests a fresh aesthetic approach to interacting with existing structures.

Architects | Büro Wagner: Fabian A. Wagner, Edwin Hoffmann, Louise Daussy, Francesco Vasconi, Helena Schenavsky

Photos | Kim Fohmann

1 | Towards the rear of the garage, a small annex was introduced, housing an entrance, WC, and a quaint telephone booth

2 | The translucent polycarbonate façade ushers in an abundance of natural light while safeguarding privacy from passersby

3 | The furniture adds an industrial charm, with the table and stools crafted from galvanized pressed grates

Galvanizing Delight

Superunification, an impressive sculpture in Dublin, showcases the strategic use of galvanizing in art and construction. The decision to use galvanized mild steel tubing not only reduced costs significantly but also provided essential, long-lasting corrosion protection. The galvanized sections were bolted at the base, welded at the top, and painted to meet the artistic vision of the sculpture.

Engineers| GSTech Engineering

| Imageworks Photography

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