Description of execution
The complex consisted of two multi-storey residential and commercial buildings located in the centre of Wrocław, right next to Malt Island. The building's façade was designed using prefabricated structures with a textured surface, which posed a major design and production challenge.
We manufactured and delivered the building's façade elements, including 47 single-layer columns, 58 three-layer columns – which also have a structural function – as well as 60 trapezoidal panels and over 1,200 prefabricated façade cladding panels. The elements were designed in many geometries and dimensions, which required the preparation of many production moulds.
In addition, we also delivered HCU floor slabs with a total area of almost 7,500 m² and more than 50 stair flights.
The high demands of the architects regarding the façade elements required us to conduct numerous laboratory tests in order to obtain satisfactory samples. The objective was to obtain prefabricated elements with a rough, natural stone structure, such as basalt and granite, and to select the right binder colour. During the tests, we tried out three types of white cement and several plasticisers and other additives to improve the properties of the concrete mix. As a result, we developed self-compacting, hydrophobic concrete, the consistency of which reduces the segregation and settling of basalt aggregate. Due to its higher density, basalt tends to segregate in self-compacting concrete, which is why a specially developed mixture was crucial to achieving the desired results. The façade elements were sandblasted before leaving the manufacturing facility.
Thanks to our experience and work on the development of the appropriate concrete mix, we were able to produce high-quality prefabricated elements that met the visual aspects set by the architects and the investor.
The assembly of all prefabricated elements took place on the construction site in parallel on both buildings. The façade elements were installed simultaneously with the construction of the buildings.
Due to the location in the city centre, deliveries were closely coordinated with the construction site. The delivery times and the order in which the elements were placed on the vehicles were very important for the assembly speed. This required close partnership between the logistics department and the general contractor.
We invite you to read our post about the project:
*For over 30 years, we have specialised in the manufacturing of prefabricated elements for construction: from residential buildings, through public utility and industrial facilities, to complex elements of civil engineering, road, bridge, and hydraulic and structures. Our goal is to produce the highest quality building materials from concrete, including customised prefabricated elements made to order for companies and individual recipients, regardless of the type and size of the investment.
