Building Value
arc hi t e c t u m
February 2007 | edition 8 | International Magazine Koramic Clay Roof Tiles
Clay Roof Tiles
arch i te c tum publisher Wienerberger AG editorial staff Christian Van Thuyne (Belgium), Isabelle Bevernage (Belgium), Pekka Porkanen (Estonia), Anne-Raphaële Porcherot (France), Laëtitia Deviterne (France), Heidemarie Lange (Germany), Geert Kamps (Holland), Willeke Sloesen (Holland), Monika Sikorska (Poland), Franz Kolnerberger (Export), Sabine Merlevede (Export), Stefan Claeys (Corporate) editor Roger Sng (Asia), Staf Bellens (Belgium), Ene Läkk (Estonia), Jean-Pierre Cousin (France), Gerard Halama (Germany), Tom de Vries (Holland), Caroline C. Kruit (Holland), Per Ivar Ødegaard (Norway), Andrzej Stolarczyk (Poland), Sarah Jackson (United Kingdom), Tim Spillane (United States) photography Chu Ngee Heng (Asia), Peter Verplancke (Belgium), Aivo Kallas (Estonia), Laurent Cheviet (France), Mathieu Ducros (France), Gerard Halama (Germany), Hubaer Kusters (Holland), Michał Skorupski (Poland) Nigel Linton (United Kingdom), IMAGE photos AS – Atle Johnsen (Norway) co-ordination & realization Raphaela Schüller Stefan Claeys design & prepress Ikaros Communications (Belgium) press Deckers Druk (Belgium) editorial office Wienerberger Export Division Ter Bede Business Center B-8500 Kortrijk +32 (0) 56 26 43 31 +32 (0) 56 26 43 32 info@koramic-rooftiles.com www.koramic.com This magazine from
appears in Dutch, English, German, French and Polish. ARCHITECTUM is distributed in Belgium, Holland, Luxemburg, France, Germany, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Hungary, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Cyprus, United Arab Emirates, United States, Japan and Singapore.
Dear Reader,
A warm welcome to the eighth edition, featuring a further collection of projects to help inspire new ideas for creative roof design using Koramic clay roof tiles.
Different concepts and styles of modern architecture next to successful renovation projects are presented and explained in this Architectum. You will discover all kinds of applications: from vertical wall cladding to curved roofs – everything is possible with our large range of roof tiles and fittings!
Koramic is an international brand and therefore we also want to have a look to countries outside of Western Europe: We have two very interesting projects in Asia and Northern Europe. The first one brings us to Singapore with an amazing concept of setting individual houses on the top of skyscrapers in Singapore. And the second project shows us typical colourful Norwegian houses with glazed roof tiles in the countryside near Oslo.
Enjoy your reading!
Franz Kolnerberger Export Sales Manager
Highlights 4 6 3
8 5
7 1 2
1
CHARM OLD AND NEW
> p06-07
5
BLACK CLAY ROOF TILES ADD QUALITY AND ELEGANCE
> p22-23
> p14-16
6
FLOWING FORM
> p26-27
30 homes in Beemster Polder
2
THE IDEAL BLEND of past and present
3 4
friendly for all Earth’s inhabitants
CLAY ROOF TILE CREATES UNITY IN VARIETY
> p17-19
RED GABLE ROOF
> p20-21
7
SANDCASTLE
> p30-31
moored in the dunes
8
and Mondriaan magic
ARCHED ROOFS define distinctive identity
3
> p34-35
[Belgium]
GREEN LOCATION in TOWN light and sight on wide front
> 4
Living in the centre of town with a view of unspoilt farmland: that was
blend seamlessly with the design concept and colour palette.
the dream that architect Dirk Moerman made come true. But, even more
And to reduce ‘disruptive’’ details to a minimum, the architect
than that, thanks to a sober yet subtle design, he succeeded in introdu-
concealed the rainwater drainpipes in the inside walls.
cing natural light and stunning views into every room of his house cum architect’s office.
Craftsmanship is the key The architect: “Roofer Wim Seynaeve did a great job. It’s no
The minimalist concept resulted from the orientation and the view. The west-
coincidence that he’s currently passing on his skills to young
facing front elevation catches the sunlight, while the garden façade offers a
roofers. The whole secret lies in the preparation. To achieve
grand panorama of untouched farmland. A truly unique location right in the
such a perfect result, you have to start out from as flat a base
centre of the town of Izegem in West-Flanders.
as possible.“
Architect Dirk Moerman combined light and sight in his design. The house is
“I work mainly with Koramic products. You can have complete
thirty metres long but only 8.3 metres wide. Thanks to these proportions, every
confidence in their quality and choose from a wide range, in
room gets its fair share of views and daylight. Large areas of glass in the long
which there’s something for everyone. And you can always
façades enhance the effect while outside sun-blinds protect the interior from
count on first-rate support and a well-constructed and user-
the fierce summer sun.
friendly website”, said the roofer.
A natural choice The choice of materials consists mainly of natural options in timeless colours: bluestone, cedar wood and clay roof tiles. The use of solar energy for producing
Project
House with architect’s office, Izegem (Belgium)
Client
Mr and Mrs Moerman-Pattijn
Architect
Architectenburo Dirk Moerman, Izegem
finished with a silicone-based dun-coloured plaster. The projecting parts - the
Roofing contractor
Dakwerken Seynaeve, Izegem
front entrance, a small extension to the sitting area and a covered terrace at the
Clay roof tile
sanitary hot water fits in with the same philosophy. The outside walls are
Koramic Pottelberg Plain Tile 301 smooth, braised blue
rear – are given a distinctive character by robust cedar frames. This wood is also used for the sloping eaves.
Pottelberg Plain Tile 301 The large roof areas, uninterrupted except for the central-heating and fireplace chimneys, are covered with braised blue clay roof tiles. The two straight slopes
5
[The Netherlands]
>
CHARM OLD and NEW 30 homes in Beemster Polder
A charming residential project on the edge of the village of Midden-
Past, present, future
beemster mixes classic and modern features. The village lies at the heart
Although the project design makes many references to the tra-
of the historic Beemster Polder, the oldest area of reclaimed land in The
ditional surroundings, it also features many modern solutions,
Netherlands, which has remained untouched for some four hundred years
details and materials such as glass, wood and steel. The front
and has now been declared an Unesco World Heritage Site.
and rear façades have large openings so that the apartments face two ways. These features and the largely communal
The project design fits in perfectly with the historic polder landscape and envi-
garden create an agreeable outside ambience that encourages
ronment of the Beemster Polder, but also uses modern architectural insights.
social contact.
In the 30 rental apartments designed by George Polman at AG architects in Haarlem, there are numerous references to the heritage surroundings. In line
The apartments are intended for starters and restarters,
with the existing town and country planning, it was opted for two strips of buil-
who can make maximum use of their design-driven social
ding, which round off the Groene Poort development scheme. In contrast to
possibilities. In addition, these homes will grow old gracefully
nearby single-family homes, the two-storey scheme consists of one-floor apart-
with their tenants and can ultimately be easily converted into
2
ments, each with a surface area of 95 m and two spacious bedrooms.
sheltered accommodation.
‘Haystack’ with clay roof tiles Features of the historic past can be found not only in the plan’s layout but also
Project
in its execution. For example, the stairwell, which serves the apartments on the first floor and can be retrofitted with a lift, is built in the style of a traditional square ridge-roofed haystack. This special feature alludes to Beemster’s agrarian past and typical cheese-cover farmhouses.
30 rental apartments in Middenbeemster (The Netherlands)
Client
Bouwcompagnie, Hoorn
Design
AG Architecten, Haarlem
Project architect
George Polman
Main contractor
Building Company Buitenhuis bv, Landsmeer
Koramic Narvik Alegra
Roofing contractor
Gebr. Schaap, ’s Graveland
The overall impression is further enhanced by the use of clay roof tiles on all the
Clay roof tile
Koramic Narvik Alegra, natural red
long façades. The clay roof tile selected was Koramic’s Narvik Alegra natural red, which was also employed to cover the pitched roofs of the two blocks and the flat gables. The latter again allude to the open landscape, and their crisscross design echoes the well-ordered polder grid and village roads.
7
[Germany]
>
TWO-TONE CLAY ROOF TILE crowns Rosengarten Congress Centre
Two-tone roofs are rare in Germany. Such a covering once decorated the
Ridge and attic tile perfection
Rosengarten Congress Centre in Mannheim. Today the roof has been
With such a geometrically high roof tile like the E28S, it is
magnificently restored to its original Art Nouveau splendour thanks to a
difficult to solve ridge, dormer and attic joints by using lead
specially made two-tone Eisenberg monastery clay roof tile E28S and a
or copper, because of the considerable differences in height
number of ingenious technical solutions.
between and the upper and lower tiles. Consequently, special connecting tiles were made, and technically exact and elegant
The Rosengarten Congress Centre is one of Mannheim’s finest buildings but
joints were achieved on the ridges. Depending on the pitch,
was extensively destroyed during the war. Only a few original roof tiles remained
two kinds of connecting tiles were used, with different inclined
intact and they therefore were used as examples for restoration of the main roof.
ridge supports.
Koramic succeeded in faithfully reproducing the complex geometry of the roof tile and its partial glazing.
Monk and nun tiles ideal The monk part of the cloister tile E28S was green glazed and
Two-tone monk and nun tile covering
the nun part was natural red. Roof ridges in the same colours
The monastery clay tile E28S was specially developed for this restoration and
were applied on the batwing dormers. Left and right hand
features the monk part in green glazed and the nun part in natural red. In
verge tiles and double bead tiles were made for the five large
addition, special shaped roof tiles had to be made for covering the large
barrel dormers.
batwing dormers on the upper roof.
Barrel dormer challenge Covering the five large barrel dormers in the mansard roof proved particularly difficult. Originally, left hand verge tiles were supplied for this purpose and the
Project
Total roof restoration of the Rosengarten Congress Centre, Mannheim (Germany)
Client
water drained off properly as planned on the right-hand side of the dormers. But
Mannheimer Kongress und Touristik GmbH, Mannheim
on the left-hand side, the water ran against the crease, causing damage. Finally,
Architect
Karl Schmucker + Partner, Mannheim
the dormer surfaces were completely demolished, straightened and covered
Roofing contractor
AWO Dachbau GmbH, Ladenburg
with copper.
Clay roof tile
Koramic Eisenberg E28S, green glazed and natural red
When it came to the covering of the main roof, Koramic accepted the challenge and developed special left and right hand verge tiles.
9
NATURAL QUALITY in ranch-style single-family home [Poland]
> 10
A house should be built to last, and so high-quality materials should be
Clay roof tile tradition
selected for appearance and durability. So the more right decisions are
The roof is always the part of a building that is the decisive
made when building starts, the less additional costs and problems will be
factor that defines its beauty and aesthetic image. It was the
encountered in later years. That was precisely the course of action taken
application of Koramic Beaver clay roof tiles that ensured the
for a new house in the Warmia region of North Poland.
house’s exceptionally attractive appearance. And, importantly, its charm enables it to blend into the Warmia region landscape
The choice of location is of first and foremost importance for anyone wishing to
as a continuation of the historic tradition of covering roofs with
build the perfect house. In this case, the owner decided on his home region of
“karpiówka” (fish-scale) clay roof tiles.
Warmia, much loved for its large lakes and expanses of woodlands. “The main aim was to optimally merge the solid volume of the house into its surroundings
Workmanship wins
and create an impression of the interior intertwining with the exterior”, says
The owners sums up: “The architect’s and contractors ad-
architect Anna Mikulska Bak.
vice was right on target. So the building is distinguished by excellent workmanship and careful selection of natural mate-
Ranch-style distinction
rials, which created a unique harmony between the house’s
The large size of the plot enabled the building to be divided into a formal en-
architecture and its natural environment and generated space
trance and private quarters designated for rest and relaxation, protecting the
where life is good.”
privacy of the occupants and opening up to the surrounding woods. The client and architect agreed on the design. The result is a traditional, ranch-style house with a distinctive sloping roof and large eaves, creating a beautiful line and a loft partially adapted for living space.
Project
New single-family house in Mazuria (Poland)
High-quality natural materials
Architect Roofing contractor
The exceptionally beautiful natural surroundings determined the choice of materials to be used in the construction of the house. In such a natural setting it
Anna Mikulska-Bak Przedsiębiorstwo Budowlane „Skorłutowski” S.J.
Clay roof tile
was decided to employ very high-quality natural materials: stone, wood, glass, façade plastering matching the wood background, extremely beautiful natural red clay roof tiles and copper drainpipes.
11
Koramic Kunice Beaver Tile, natural red
[France]
MULTI-PURPOSE FACILITIES on listed site
>
12
Between the Jura and Mount Salève in Savoy, five communities
Roof resplendent
combined to build a crèche, a school canteen and two apartments for
The roof features pointed dormers on the street side, and skylights on the
the staff under one large roof. Because of the listed area, the development
side of the children’s playground. Moreover, the gable ends have large
was sensitive but was conceived and finished in 14 months despite bad
covered balconies for each apartment, with views towards the Jura and
weather, especially thanks to the expertise of both the architect and the
Mount Salève.
roofing contractor.
The attic of the other wing, is narrower and lower, so was not suitable for conversion into living quarters.
Architect Enri Chabal was chosen on the strength of his proposal that succeeded in skilfully meeting the programme constraints. The building had
The clearcut lines of the design are further enhanced by the expanses of
to fit in with the surroundings: a listed site around an old cross at the centre
flat Actua clay roof tiles. The valleys and the pointed dormers were treated
of ancient buildings. The architect of the buildings of France (ABF) also had to
in pre-patinated copper to accentuate the volumes and the hip-rafters were
give his opinion.
decorated with traditional studs.
Welcoming architecture
Looks and quality
The architect focused on the users’ comfort, inside and outside. For example,
The intercommunal association team insisted on its choice of modern-
he generously proportioned the gallery where the personnel and the parents
looking Actua clay roof tiles in the multiblend colour, which changes
with their children pass each other. The youngsters also use it as a covered
according to the light. The roofing contractor appreciated the quality of the
playground.
materials used; especially while laying the roof during bad weather with very cold spells.
Premises functionality Confronted with the site’s constraints, a clear architectural approach was followed and the buildings have pure uncluttered lines. First of all, the crèche
Project
Multi-purpose facilities, Neydens (France)
and the canteen were combined in one building. Then, the client team (chaired
Client
Intercommunal association
Architect
Enri Chabal, Grenoble
Roofing contractor
Didier Roux, Magland
Clay roof tile
Koramic Migeon Actua, multiblend
by Mrs Lamouille) thought the roof of the main building was rather large, so the attic was converted to apartments for the staff due to the lack of accommodation in the region.
13
[United Kingdom]
>
THE IDEAL BLEND of past and present
14
Douai Abbey is the home of a community of monks of the English Be-
Respecting history
nedictine Congregation situated between Reading and Newbury, in the
The key objective of the design brief was to ensure that these
county of Berkshire, about one hour west of London. Now the community’s
new residential properties respected the character and style of
permanent home, construction of the existing Abbey Church and the
the site’s existing historic buildings. The developer was com-
former Douai School began in 1929 and was finally completed in 1993.
mitted to architectural styles which would be ‘a natural extension of the past relying heavily on purity of design and quality of
Bewley Homes acquired the site with plans to breathe new life into this much-
materials’. Set within their own distinctive landscaped features,
loved historic landmark, with its exclusive Avalon development. This superior
these new two-, three- and four- bedroom houses are cha-
residential scheme incorporates both refurbishment of the historic school buil-
racterised by the variety of natural materials used, and blend
dings and additional new-build homes in the Abbey’s extensive grounds.
seamlessly with the stunning architectural legacy of Douai Abbey.
Landmark architecture The developer’s aim was to further enhance the environment in and around
Authenticity maximised
the site, creating a 21st century architectural landmark which would be a living
After extensive research into the best materials available to
extension of its proud past. Robert Adam Architects, an award-winning practice
transform the designs into modern homes of quality and
renowned for its historic buildings and sympathetic use of vernacular archi-
distinction, the developer selected Koramic’s Plain Tile 309
tecture to reflect local history and heritage, designed the scheme. Architects
Handcrafted “heritage medium” for all the site’s new-build
worked closely throughout with English Heritage, the UK Government body
houses. Around 250,000 Koramic clay roof tiles were supplied
responsible for preserving, promoting and protecting England’s historic built
to complete the project.
environment.
>
15
A perfect match Specialist roofing contractor Clive Evans from Crest Roofing believes that the end result is a fitting tribute to both past and present: “The existing buildings were restored using the original roof tiles. These roof tiles were up to 100 years’ old and had to be carefully removed and re-laid with new lead work. For the new build houses, finding a product that matched these original clay roof tiles presented a real challenge both in terms of appearance and price, but Koramic provided the ideal solution.”
Bewley Homes’ technical manager Brian Bradshaw was also impressed by the technical performance and aesthetic appeal of the Koramic roof tiles: “This is a truly unique development which draws on the expertise of many specialist suppliers to help us realise the dream.”
Design and performance “Every single item was scrutinised to ensure that it was the best available. We looked at a large range of clay roof tiles, but the Plain Tile 309 Handcrafted from Koramic was clearly the most appropriate. In fact, none of the others we saw came close to meeting our design or technical specification. “ “It was vital that the houses and apartments were designed to naturally blend in with the existing listed buildings. The unique weathered appearance and random finish of this roof tile created an authentic look that perfectly matched the local surroundings.”
Project
Restoration of historic Douai school and
Client
Bewley Homes
Architect
Nigel Anderson at Robert Adam Architects
new-build residential development (UK)
Roofing Contractor
Crest Roofing Ltd. Tadley, Hampshire
Clay roof tile
Koramic Bouxwiller Plain Tile 309 Handcrafted, heritage medium
16
> [The Netherlands]
Clay roof tile creates
UNITY in VARIETY Residential block Swanla situated on the edge of the Dutch village of Zevenhuizen-Moerkapelle near Rotterdam required a scale that fits in with the landscape through the use of different materials for the ground floor. Unity was achieved by covering the highly varied development with one and the same clay roof tile.
The different types of roof that cover this project were defined only later in the design process. The choice of clay roof tiles was quickly made as a reference to materials used in the village. In addition to a residence for senior citizens, the scheme also included single-family terraced houses, semidetached houses and starter homes.
17
> Linking with landscape Architect Evelien van Veen concentrated first on the arrangement of the different types of dwellings. A total of 89 residential units had to be accommodated on a plot of barely two hectares. In the urban development plan, which was elaborated jointly with Grontmij, the development is split into two islands surrounded by watercourses and thus connects with the polder landscape. The link with the landscape on the one hand and the village buildings on the other was a driving principle in the design.
Roof tiles down to scale Bringing the project under “one” roof held the different building heights and buildings volumes together, while the different roofs kept things down to scale. The roofs are covered with a slate-coloured flat roof tile, the Narvik Datura. This roof tile was also used for the façades, which facilitated variety in design and structure. Thus there are round façades at the corners of the islands, and high alternate with low façades and flat or steep roofs. In spite of the wide eaves, the architect succeeded in achieving a balance by choosing an orange-red brick.
Modern roof tile with a slight ‘kink’ Unity in diversity was the design watchword and the choice of clay bricks and roof tiles played a major role. Evelien van Veen: “The Narvik Datura is a modern flat tile with a flattening on the underside. The resulting slight “kink” on the roof surface gives a special shadow play and a “horizontality” effect, as if it was constructed of planks.” Great attention was paid to detail therefore everything fits perfectly. The façade openings were adapted to the roof tile format and it was never necessary to cut roof tiles to size. This care is also apparent in the inner courtyards of the closed blocks. The access areas to the apartments are executed in wood and glass and create pleasant meeting places for the residents. And on the ground floor, brick garden walls bring together the widely different types of dwelling.
Project
Swanla residential estate with 89 homes and underground car park, ZevenhuizenMoerkapelle (The Netherlands)
Client
Woonpartners Midden Holland
Design
Drost + van Veen Architects, Rotterdam
Project architect
Evelien van Veen
Main contractor
Building company vd Waal, Vlaardingen
Roofing contractor
Pekadak bv, Groesbeek
Clay roof tile
Koramic Narvik Datura, slate engobe
[Belgium]
RED GABLE ROOFS and Mondriaan magic
In Kortrijk, the textile finishing company TSA, situated in the middle of
modern interpretation of the stepped-roof house. The narrow
a residential area, made way for 45 new social housing units clustered
gable-roof façades are repeated in a strict rhythm, giving an
around a grassed courtyard. Architect Filip Cnockaert’s distinctive design
ambience of overall coherence and calm.
echoes beguinages of the past and features façades that are a modern interpretation of step-roof houses.
Artistically individual Yet, every unit also stands out on its own thanks to the marked
Because the site was heavily contaminated and asbestos had been found, the
verticality of the façades, which is underlined by the striking
project involved a whole process of demolition, clean-up and construction. To
natural red colour of Koramic’s Tempest Tile 44, chosen here
steer all of this in the right direction, the commission was entrusted to one
for its excellent price/quality ratio. Every house is also given its
design firm and one main contractor. Architect’s firm Filip Cnockaert was in-
own identity as the result of a subtle, almost inconspicuous
structed that the project had to be architecturally coherent on both street sides
feature. In the façades there are six areas of toughened glass,
and around the courtyard.
painted on the back in various shades of grey. By playing with the colours of these areas, every composition is different and
Sustainability first
every house unique. An example of how Mondriaan art gave
The client insisted on “sustainability” as an additional requirement. This ex-
social housing an unexpected face.
plains the choice of brick, clay roof tiles, pre-patinated zinc, high-quality PVC windows and rainwater recycling. It was a welcome bonus that the city insisted on underground garages and was also willing to foot the additional cost. To keep the general impression of the site as uncluttered as possible, the
Project
45 residential units and 44 underground
homes, underground garages and the garden were all given plenty of storage space. This is an ideal way of preventing unsightly proliferation of self-erected
Social housing construction project with
garages, Kortrijk (Belgium) Client
sheds.
Zuid-West-Vlaamse Sociale Huisvestingsmaatschappij, Kortrijk
Architect
Flip Cnockaert, Kortrijk
Stepped roof inspiration
Main contractor
BBC - Bekaert Building Company, Anzegem
Living around a courtyard immediately reminded architect Filip Cnockaert of
Roofing contractor
Siegfried De Croo, Marke-Kortrijk and Willy De Smet, Gavere-Asper
the beguinages of yesteryear that created enclaves in the urban landscape. And the narrow terraced houses with their gable roofs on the other side of the
Clay roof tile
Koramic Pottelberg Tempest Tile 44, natural red
street inspired him to design a very special type of house. He even talks of a
21
>
Black clay roof tiles add
QUALITY and ELEGANCE [Norway]
Norway’s Gardermoen Airport opened in 1998 and the 40 km between
Quality guaranteed
the airport and Oslo city centre has developed rapidly with many new
In addition, the architect also stresses in conclusion that “the
businesses and housing projects. It is mostly a built-up area, where it is
30-year warranty which is applicable for all Koramic clay roof
difficult to find undeveloped land. Brånåsen at Skedsmo is situated along
tiles is an important tool and source of peace of mind for
this line about 20 km outside Oslo and is a highly popular suburb.
architects and contractors alike. It means that you can pick freely from a different product mix of models and colours in
The plan covered a two-stage development project for a residential estate that
the sure knowledge that the underlying quality and warranty
would finally comprise a total of 32 homes. Architect Sverre Berge sets out
terms are on the same high and consistent level.”
the main design objective: “I wanted to design a typical old, cosy Norwegian wooden home environment with white painted houses, black glazed tile roofs, narrow streets and playgrounds for the children. And the total environment should express a feeling of security, with each house radiating high quality and
Project
discreet elegance.”
First Narvik FD … The architect explains that the Narvik FD with its flat profile and large roll made
Residential estate of 32 homes, Brånåsen (Norway)
Architect
Sverre Berge
Developer
Tenk Bygg AS
Contractor
Tenk Bygg AS / Horten Hus AS
Clay roof tile
the right structure on the roof. Further, he says that Dutch black glazed roof
Stage 1: Koramic Narvik FD, black glazed Stage 2: Koramic Narvik Alegra, black glazed
tiles, known as “ekte hollandsk glasert” in Norwegian, have a long history in the country and ensured that the estate would benefit from an established, quality cachet.
... and then Alegra In the meantime, before stage 2 could start, the Narvik Alegra model had been developed and was ready for the market. With the same discreetly elegant appearance and intrinsic quality as the FD, this large modern roof tile with adjustable lath distance became the perfect match for the contractor in the next and more extensive stage 2 of the project. Sverre Berge confirmed that these larger adjustable clay roof tiles were remarkably faster and easier to lay, and enabled a great deal of additional cutting to be avoided in the process.
23
> [Estonia]
MODERN MANOR in Art Nouveau style
An ideal location: Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, with wide vistas, soaring trees,
frames. The building is dominated by a curb roof covered with
a winding river and a picturesque hillside. An ambience of calm, birdsong
Koramic Migeon Vauban clay roof tiles. The outer sections of
and rippling water. When the client envisaged a romantic manor, he drew
window frames are covered with rolled copper sheet, which
th
much inspiration from the Art Nouveau style of the early 20 century, and
acquires a stylish patina over time.
the “fairy-tale setting”.
Colourfully natural The client decided to make use of the romantic greenery on a 9,000 m2 plot.
The building has a limestone base and Koramic’s handmade
There was enough space for two gardens, one in Japanese and the other in
St Johns bricks were used for the façade masonry. The walls
English style. While authentic Art Nouveau indulges in playful forms and
combine creamy rough-cast with bricks.
decorative images featuring shaped asymmetrical facades, the owner
Extensive use has been made of natural building materials, and
took plenty of liberties when adapting the Art Nouveau concept to his own
the colour palette is typically Art Nouveau, inspired by nature.
present-day needs. While Art Nouveau architecture starts from the interior layout,
Striking symmetry
here the entire building is centred around one large room. The
The building has a rectangle shape and is symmetrical on all sides, quite unlike
open plan ground floor (including an entrance room, kitchen
classic Art Nouveau. The manor runs east to west, with the terrace and the
and a living room) is centred around the hall.
balcony facing the evening sun and nearby river. Another atypical feature is the low height of the building.
The owner suggested that the Art Nouveau inspiration for the house came from the picturesque plot, as well as his own
So what then are the typical Art Nouveau features of this particular manor
childhood home. And now he and his family have “restored”
Art Nouveau? Perhaps it is the choice of materials or its distinctive windows.
the home of their youth, they can enjoy it to the full.
According to Belgian artist Henry van de Velde, the most important principle of Art Nouveau is that a house is a “living organism where everything not
Project
New private house in Tallinn (Estonia)
organically connected with its architectural entity is out of place”.
Client
Tiit Raukas
Architect
Margit Kõrts, Arhitektuuribüroo
Main contractor
Kontek AS
This particular “living organism” has many different windows, most of them
Roofing contractor
Andrus Väikenurm
large with the typical Art Nouveau arched form, not to mention the carved stone
Clay roof tile
Koramic Migeon Vauban, multiblend
Organic curb roof
Margit Kõrts OÜ
25
[The Netherlands]
FLOWING FORM friendly for all Earth’s inhabitants
The new WNF headquarters in Zeist is an earth-friendly building,
Bats and birds on the wings
which gives back more energy than it uses. All materials in the buil-
The main façades of the wings were recovered with dark-red
ding were tested against strict requirements laid down by the WNF and
bricks and dark mortar. In the east wing there are also small
the architect. This included the clay roof tiles covering the new “blob”
round openings in the façade, behind which there could be
entrance and the facing bricks of the restored wings.
bird’s nests. In the west wing, the openings are bricked in and larger: behind them there are “bat cellars” where large groups
In 2002, with a closed competition for seven architects, the WNF (World Nature
of bats can nestle.
Fund) went in search of the design for their new Dutch HQ. The organisation had its eye on a small piece of a protected nature reserve area, where an empty
Building back to nature
laboratory from 1954 was going to rack and ruin. Architect’s firm RAU from
“We make earth-friendly buildings”, says architect Thomas
Amsterdam won with a plan that “naturally” linked energy-saving and environ-
Rau. “In fact, we gave this piece of nature back to the planet
mentally friendly construction to the organisation’s programme of demands.
by erecting a building that is not only energy neutral, but also contributes in many respects to a better environment. And not
Natural learnings
just for humans!”
The building was officially opened in September 2006. Here visitors learn “naturally” about air-conditioning systems (including the human body’s energy
Project
metabolism), natural light entry and suitable materials for the interior. The WNF checks all materials for source of the raw material, production method and also who the manufacturers are.
Clay as natural cover
Client
WNF Zeist
Architect
Architect’s Firm Rau, Amsterdam
Project architect
Thomas Rau
Main contractor
Building Company Van Zoelen bv, Utrecht
Roofing contractor
Leidekkersbedrijf Willem Van Boxtel, Ubbergen
Clay was the basic raw material for cladding the strikingly large main entrance: the flowing form is covered with a blend of glazed clay roof tiles. Little bulges
Refurbishment of WNF building in Zeist (The Netherlands)
Clay roof tile
Koramic Pottelberg Plain Tile 301 smooth, anthracite, slate matt glazed, brown glazed,
here and there betray the presence of stone “nesting boxes”: the building thus
wine red glazed, black glazed
also offers a “roof” to the inhabitants of the nature reserve.
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QUALITY of LIFE in Alsace social housing scheme [France]
For social client “Colmarienne de logements”, (Opus 67, Public Office of
experience. It demands particularly high levels of precision in
Social Town planning of the Lower Rhine), this housing scheme was its
site preparation and laying accuracy.”
second experience of wood frame construction and the first with HQE®
“It’s not just about technical drawings of tile areas. You also
(High Environmental Quality). The project combines user comfort, fine
have to manage the joints between cladding materials of dif-
architectural design, site productivity and overall savings.
ferent types, applications and thicknesses, which often causes some difficulty in the case of vertical joints.”
Focus on quality of life The 25 terraced houses of “Le Clos des Lilas” in Sainte Croix en Plain in the
Migeon Actua meets the challenge
Alsace region of France are spread over three units and were designed to give
The contractor continued: “On this project, we faced the special
tenants the best possible quality of life.
challenge of joining clay tile cladding, metal cladding and
The setting of the housing scheme combines village life and family privacy.
the wooden frames of the openings. The clerk of the works
And all these terraced houses have car access right up to the door, while
checked all the technical drawings by computer; so that there
pedestrian walkways and the three dedicated areas for children’s games and
was no cutting of tiles at all, just as the architects intended. As
leisure activities are sheltered from traffic.
regards façade cladding, Migeon Actua has the advantage of being the only tile to include vertical angle pieces. Of course,
Productivity and overall savings
each tile is laid on battens like on the roof, but has to be fixed
There was unanimous agreement about using the same clay roof tiles for the
individually.”
façade cladding as for the roof, and the scheme was finished in a record eight months. Everything was prefabricated, included the wood frame. The dividing walls
Project
between the houses are made from concrete because of its sound insulation properties. With a view to long-term management obligations, the client was
“Le Clos des Lilas”, 25 new houses, Sainte Croix en Plaine (France)
Client Architect
especially conscious of overall material costs and preferred clay tiles because
“Colmarienne de logements”, Opus 67 K’nL Architectes, Laperelle et Koscielski, Rouffac
they respect the initial construction budget.
Roofing and cladding contractor
Utmost precision throughout
Clay roof tile
Entreprise Schoenenberger, Colmar
Roofing and cladding contractor Schoenenberger: “For us, this type of building site where you have to treat the joints of the different covering materials is a new
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Koramic Migeon Actua, natural red
SANDCASTLE moored in the dunes
[Belgium]
In the dunes of Oostduinkerke-Bad on the Belgian coast, architect Koen
architect as well as for the roofer. Architect Steenkiste com-
Steenkiste built a house that immediately evokes the image of a boat. This
ments: “It was a great challenge, which was a technical and
resemblance was not deliberate but sprang from the irregular shape of the
aesthetic success thanks to the support we received from the
building plot. The location against the side of the dune also offered the
Koramic engineer.”
opportunity of constructing a cellar with a garage.
Rich in contrast The location is ideal: only a walk away from the sea and Oostduinkerke-Bad,
The large round dormer window was covered with pre-pati-
but still just outside the tourist hustle and bustle that afflicts the coast at
nated zinc because a covering with clay roof tiles was virtually
certain times. The client wanted to make optimal use of the relatively restric-
impossible here. To give the whole building an optical unity,
ted site. Because of its irregular shape, this exercise resulted in a ground plan
the bay on the garden side and the complete cornice were
that on closer look has something of the bow of a ship about it. In fact, the
finished with the same zinc. The uniform colour of the first floor
plan consists of two parts: a rectangle 7 metres wide, and an organic part that
contrasts nicely with the façades of the ground floor, which are
connects with it.
covered in sandy-coloured facing brick that blends well with the surrounding dunes.
Creating free space The shape of the roof, immediately recognisable as an upturned boot, is in fact also born out of circumstances. The client wanted to have three bedrooms and
Project
a spacious bathroom on the first floor, but that turned out to be no sinecure. A first floor was only allowed on the rectangular part of the ground floor, and in addition the cornice could not be lower than 3.5 metres. Consequently, the architect was unable to fit the extensive programme under an ordinary pitched
Single-family house in the dunes, Oostduinkerke-Bad (Belgium)
Client
Owner and occupier
Architect
Koen Steenkiste, Koksijde
Roofing contractor
Dakwerken Dewulf-Treve, Merkem
Clay roof tile
roof. The only solution consisted of an arched roof, which did offer enough free
Pottelberg Plain Tile 301 smooth, braised blue
space to accommodate all the facilities. It also meant that two terraces could be installed on the projecting organic part.
Clay roof tile chosen At the client’s request, the arched roof was finished with clay roof tiles: Pottelberg Plain Tile 301 smooth braised blue. This was a maiden trip for the
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Clay roof tile creates
CONDOMINIUM CONTRAST
[Singapore]
In Singapore most people live in high-rise apartments. The Pearl located
Clay-tiled contrast
at Mt Faber Condominium stands out as a fine example of luxurious
By incorporating a series of pitched clay-tiled roofs on a normally
hillside living. Sited at the foot of Mt Faber, which is part of Mt Faber Park
flat concrete roof, the architect has added an aesthetically
- one of the oldest in Singapore, this popular hill gives a magnificent view
contrasting feature that will no doubt enhance this project’s
of the whole port of Singapore and the resort island of Sentosa.
identity. More importantly, the flat rust-red clay roof tiles chosen for this project blend smoothly into the buildings’ clean con-
Completed in late 2005, the Pearl is an 11-storey luxury residential project
temporary lines without compromising safety.
developed by Sim Lian Group Ltd, designed by Design Link Architects and constructed by Sim Lian Construction. Covering 10,560 m2, the project
Safe selection
includes two main tower blocks with a total of 192 housing units. Residents
Actua’s interlocking feature, nailing holes and robustness were
live in tranquil surroundings on the hillside of lush greenery. Yet it is just a
major factors that convinced the architect. This was confirmed
5-minute drive to the business district and 10-minute walk from the station.
by Mr. Francis Phay, Contracts Manager at Sim Lian Group
As it is also near the planned Integrated Resort on Sentosa Island, the Pearl
Ltd, who also stressed that being very near the sea, the blocks
is sure to give investors and owners good returns.
are exposed to gusty winds from time to time. So it is essential that the roof tiles are safely secured with minimum risk to
Bungalows In the sky
residents.
The Pearl is designed in clean contemporary lines, with modern luxurious features both inside and out. One prominent external characteristic is the generous use of glass throughout the project, which gives it a high-class look and feel. All
Project
The Pearl at Mt Faber Condominium, Singapore
units come with spacious balconies, which can be used as an indoor garden or Client
Sim Lian Group Ltd, Singapore
Architect
Design Link Architects, Singapore
Contractor
Sim Lian Construction, Singapore
Another distinct architectural feature must surely be the pitched clay-tiled roofs
Roofing contractor
Unipat Builders Pte Ltd, Singapore
for the penthouses on the top floors. These duplex penthouses, 15 units in
Clay roof tile
Koramic Langenzenn Actua, rust-red
somewhere to unwind and take in the views.
all, are neatly spread over the 2 tower blocks, each unit with its own individual pitched roof. From afar and at eye level or even higher, these penthouses look like beautiful bungalows in the sky, adding a highly unique touch.
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[The Netherlands]
ARCHED ROOFS define distinctive identity
The choice of the refined design of a Tempest tile is completely in line with
Tempest tile quality
the philosophy of architect’s firm Hoenders Dekkers Zinsmeister. This
The project architect: “I wanted a minimum of fuss and no
roof tile was selected to cover the striking arched roof that dominates the
tricks. That’s why the roof was the focus. The arched roof, with
otherwise sober architecture of 215 single-family homes in Leidschen-
its pointed ridge, gives the project identity and also increases
veen near The Hague in The Netherlands.
the usable floor area.” Originally, a clay roof tile of French manufacture was selected, but the Pottelberg Tempest 44
Sober architecture that improves over time is part and parcel of the vision of ar-
finally won on quality and performance.
chitects Hoenders Dekkers Zinsmeister. Thus, they go against the limited shelf life of fashionable styles in most modern architecture. Their design conviction
The low gutter line is an intriguing design feature and also
is also visible in their project in the Leidschenveen VINEX development district,
frames the extensions on the ground floor. Each house has a
The Hague. The 215 houses are virtually identical. The only variation is the
large storey-high dormer on the front and rear façade, which
ground-floor extension to the gables and rear façades. Some may think it dull,
enhances the roof’s powerful presence and adds rhythm to
but the execution is very meticulous and detailed.
the streetscape.
Lens-shaped main plot
Project
The Hague (The Netherlands)
The residential plan designed by project architect Allard de Goeij consists of two subplans. The design of the subplans that are a few hundred meters apart is identical, but individuality was sought in the choice of materials. In one subplan,
Clients
Architect
Hoenders Dekkers Zinsmeister Architekten, Delft
versa in the other subplan. Both based on the same urban development plan:
Project architect
two long streets enclosing the lens-shaped main plot. The massiveness of the
Main contractors
Allard de Goeij Variant Bouwonderneming, Alphen aan den Rijn and Trebbe Bouw West, Nieuwegein
scheme was broken up by spreading many of the houses along the streets over Roofing contractors
Dapan Dakspecialist, Molenhoek and Pekadak Dakdekkers- and Timmerbedrijf,
other within the slanting lines of the main plot results in a changing perspective. Depending on where you stand, the street line disappears or gable sections
AM Wonen, Zoetermeer and Heijmans Trebbe Vastgoed, Nieuwegein
red handcrafted bricks are combined with a darker roof tile, and precisely vice
a total of 34 blocks of four or five units. Also, siting the blocks parallel to each
215 single-family homes in Leidschenveen,
Groesbeek Clay roof tile
come into view.
Koramic Pottelberg Tempest Tile 44, natural red and anthracite
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Building Value
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Clay Roof Tiles