ian shaw architekten: October 2013

Beton-Balkone
Frankfurt am Main

Two super-sized balcony stuctures - comprising prefabricated concrete columns and platforms - perfectly complement the scale and massing of the late nineteenth century apartment block that they abut.

The concrete’s etched finish - the result of extensive testing with several 1:1 samples, incorporating various aggregates and pigments - references the use of red sandstone in the door and window trims. And as an elegant counterpoint to the scheme’s over-all solidity, self-supporting stainless steel railings neatly enclose each floor plate.

The spindles in each railing section sit within precisely aligned, 50mm deep countersunk stainless steel bushings, collectively configured as a single unit within the pre-cast concrete mould in order to eliminate any movement. A series of circular steel plate surrounds completes the railing detail, slotting into the bushings and sitting flush with the floor.

Internally, the platforms are calibrated with a 2% fall to allow for drainage. 3cm thick sandstone slabs, positioned on footings, provide a safe and durable surface.

In essence, the project’s composition and geometry represents a seamless integration of making and thought, culminating in two contextually measured structures.

Beton-Balkone
Prefabricated bespoke concrete and stainless steel railings
Frankfurt am Main, 2013

PROFILE

Studio

Established in 1998, Ian Shaw Architekten is an award winning, international practice based in Frankfurt, offering a full architectural service together with urban design and master-planning; interior architecture; furniture and product design; and acoustics & sound system design.

The practice has extensive experience across a wide range of building types, having delivered projects in the commercial, culture, healthcare, industrial and residential sectors.

Ian Shaw Architekten holds membership of both the Bund Deutscher Architekten (BDA) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Principles

The practice is interested in the communicative potential of construction and materiality. Integral to this approach is the use of light as a building element, defining space and animating form.

Every scheme we undertake is developed with efficiency, elegance and authenticity; and always articulated with close reference to context and function.

In essence, our buildings aim to generate a strong sense of place through visceral, experiential content; it is about rooting an architecture in its culture and topography.

Process

Everything we create is the outcome of an intensive dialogue between our clients and ourselves. Each detail is carefully considered. From concept design to completion - encompassing working drawings, specifications, rigorous site supervision and cost control - our methodology is exacting.

In addition, we make extensive use of models in developing a new project. This process is fundamental; it keeps us grounded. We design; computers assist. Technology plays its role but it's never a substitute for the art of space making, the art of building

ian shaw architekten

IAN SHAW

GRAEME RUSSELL