A specialized three-dimensional facade solution by facade specialist Rieder has provided a durable, weather-resistant exterior for a prominent building in Hamburg, Germany. The BGW and VBG Prevention Centre, a 19-story tower designed by Munich-based architecture studio Auer Weber, stands beside Hamburg's bustling port and required a robust solution to withstand the city's challenging climate conditions.
The building faces Hamburg's turbulent weather patterns of constant wind and rain, which had previously placed significant demands on the structure's facade. To address these environmental challenges, architects and engineers implemented a comprehensive exterior cladding system using 17,000 square meters of a custom-designed Rieder facade solution that combines both 3D elements and flat panels.
"Located right on the Port of Hamburg, where wind and rain are part of daily life, the Prevention Centre of the BGW and VBG makes an architectural statement of durability and care," the company explained. "Its monolithic-looking exterior acts like a tailor-made shield against the elements, combining sculptural form with functional precision."
The concrete panels feature glass fiber reinforcement and were developed in six distinct red shades to create a distinctive and warm appearance that complements the local brickwork architecture. Rieder applied varying degrees of sand-blasting to the panels, resulting in diverse optical depths that ensure the building appears visually interesting from different angles and at various times throughout the day.
During the design and development process, the structure underwent rigorous testing under real-world weather conditions to verify the system's resilience and longevity. The color palette was also carefully reviewed to ensure it harmonized with the surrounding urban environment. According to Rieder, the project successfully "unites engineering and aesthetics" while providing a long-lasting solution to the demanding weather conditions typical of the port location.
The innovative system incorporated three-dimensional, preassembled components that significantly reduced both installation time and construction costs. This prefabrication approach allowed for more efficient construction while maintaining the high quality and precision required for the demanding maritime environment.
Beyond its impressive facade, the BGW and VBG Prevention Centre serves important community functions, housing education-related advisory services and exhibitions focused on workplace safety and health. The building's interior features an open atrium, generous public spaces, and an accessible ramp to accommodate all visitors.
"The result in Hamburg is a building that is not only functional and aesthetic but also contributes to long-term sustainable urban development," the company stated, emphasizing the project's broader impact on the city's architectural landscape and environmental goals.
