Precast concrete: Aesthetic, versatile, sustainable

One of the world's first underwater bicycle garages is located in Amsterdam and can accommodate 7,000 bicycles. The 129 mother-of-pearl-colored ceiling beams inside the garage shimmer like a seashell. Max Bögl produced the chalice-shaped columns at the precast plant in Hamminkeln, Germany. Since a particularly smooth concrete surface was required, the precast elements were produced using steel formwork. Well protected, the elements were transported by truck to Amsterdam in wooden crates. Once assembled, the goblets were given a mother-of-pearl finish on site. In addition, lighting elements were used to illuminate the columns and provide a pleasant level of brightness. The exterior walls and ceilings were constructed with in-situ concrete.

The bicycle garage is part of Amsterdam Central Station, whose forecourt will be completely redesigned in 2023. Functionality was important to the client, the City of Amsterdam, which wanted cyclists to spend a maximum of six minutes in the garage. This was ensured by extensive computer simulations and implemented in the design by wUrck architectuur. The "De Entree" project was awarded the Amsterdam Architecture Prize.

The new city archive in Greifswald provides ample space for the extensive written records of the city's history. As a repository of knowledge, the clear façade design should also reflect the contents of the building. The facade itself is striking in its unusual color and shape and consists of a total of 121 precast concrete elements. The special surface, reminiscent of reddish terrazzo, was achieved by acidifying the elements. The width of the precast concrete elements is 2.09 m and 2.79 m respectively. The height of the elements varies more, with a maximum of 5.33 m and a component thickness between 12 and 14 cm. Code Unique Architects designed the first floor to be inviting and transparent with numerous glass elements. The administrative offices are located on the second floor. The precious and light-sensitive archival treasures are housed on the second and third floors at constant temperatures and without sunlight.