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GRC Façade In A Classical Design
Ekmansgatan 5
BUILT YEAR
2022
ARCHITECT
Albert Svensson, in collaboration with Inobi
CONTRACTOR
RK Natursten; Tuve Bygg
DEVELOPER
TB-Gruppen
Honoring the Past with Modern Construction Methods
Initially sparking debate in architectural circles in Sweden, the Ekmansgatan 5 project strives to pay homage to both its historical surroundings and the classical architectural style – using modern construction methods and materials.
This balance between the classical aesthetic and the modern methods came with its own range of challenges to be solved before the build could start. We therefore had early contact with the client and architect regarding the project, advising about the possibilities of our GRC.
Our GRC elements were chosen for the Ionic capitals and pediments as well as the parapets, eaves, mural crown, and the corner elements with spheres adorning the façade. A total of approximately 260 m2 GRC.
Albert Svensson (architect) drew all the intricate detail work, but only draws by hand. Again the classical and modern methods clashed and all drawings thus needed to be digitized by Inobi Architecture.
Moulding Techniques for High-Quality Elements
Most moulds for this project were hand-crafted in-house, while more intricate moulds were CNC milled with help from Broby Modelindustri AB.
We used every single one of our moulding techniques for this particular project, drawing on our team’s huge expertise to ensure the production of high-quality elements with the bespoke colour and finish chosen by the architect.
Awards:
The project has won awards for its dedication to the classical style while using modern materials, such as GRC:
- “Best Residential Project 10-19 units” at “European Property Awards”, November 2022
- “Best International Housing Project” in its category, “International Property Awards”, February 2023
The project was also nominated at the GRC2023 GRCA Congress (May 2023), in the category "Best use of GRC in a new build project with classical design" as one of BB fiberbeton A/S's project nominations.
Noteworthy mentions:
It is worth noting that the projects dedication to classical architectural design, while being a new build and using modern construction methods, is mentioned and highly praised in "The Revolution That Is Changing Architecture" by The Aesthetic City on YouTube.
Durable, lightweight, formable
GRC cladding
Through design and manufacturing we help architects, entrepreneurs, and builders create unique, durable, and sustainable facades. Whether you are starting construction on a new build or embarking on a renovation project, GRC is suitable for both.
Glassfibre reinforced concrete (GRC or GFRC) is incredibly versatile and grants you an architectural design freedom with almost endless possibilities. With the formability of GRC you can achieve any geometry and with a surface designed for your specific project. GRC is a lightweight material and our cladding elements are typically only 12 mm. Thus, making it easier to work with and transport whilst also easing the load on buildings.
GRC is an excellent facade material if durability and sustainability is of great concern and importance. GRC is durable for more than 100 years without any technical maintenance and it does not dent, rot, corrode, nor burn (class A material). With a sustainable material and an environmentally friendly production without toxic materials, GRC elements from BB fiberbeton are ideal for environmental certifications, such as LEED, DGNB, and BREEAM.
GRC is made of white cement and fine aggregates and reinforced with glassfibre. Elements are produced using a special spray-technique that allows for a low water/cement-ratio, a low thickness, and a high strength.
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