Functional and aesthetic

The architects decided on a glazed ceramic facade for three main reasons. "On the one hand, the material is robust, resistant and easy to clean - this is particularly important in high-rise construction, because it minimizes the number of maintenance and cleaning operations which can only be carried out under difficult conditions", says Vera Hartmann, the architect in charge of the project. "On the other hand, ceramics is a natural material that essentially consists of clay and conveys a homely warmth with its haptic surface qualities." The latter is particularly true of the strip tiles of the "Craft" series, whose glossy glaze reflects an astonishing depth and handcrafted manufacturing processes. The third reason for the ceramic strip tiles designed as V-pointed profiles is the comparatively cost-effective facade structure: the thin and light-weight elements form the ceramic "top layer" of a thermal insulation composite system which meets current energy requirements.