SCHINKELPLATZ Schinkelplatz is one of Berlin’s most significant urban spaces and a strong example of how contemporary architecture can respond sensitively to historical context.

Between 2012 and 2016, Staab Architekten were commissioned to design the façade of a new office building at Schinkelplatz. In collaboration with RECKLI, a system of individually manufactured formwork liners was used to create a highly detailed, perforated façade. The slurry-coated concrete surface recalls the appearance of bullet impacts and demanded exceptional precision in execution.

During the early planning phase, the architects approached us to help make the technical and aesthetic challenges of this façade manageable. Working closely together, we developed a concept that included a clear forecast of the surface imperfections that could realistically be expected. Based on our extensive experience, we were able to predict these defects with a high degree of accuracy. This concept formed the foundation for the tendering of the structural works.

Following this preparation, we were commissioned by the selected builder to carry out the specialist finishing of the façade surfaces. Thanks to the seamless collaboration between all parties, the anticipated voids and areas of spalling were rectified with minimal effort. Supported by the high quality of the structural concrete, we were also able to treat and retouch the formwork joints to fully meet the architects’ design intent.

The entire façade was subsequently coated using an airless application of a finely pigmented mineral paint by KEIM. In total, approximately 930 square metres of façade were processed in around 1,500 working hours.

This project clearly demonstrates how high-quality architectural concrete surfaces can be achieved efficiently and reliably when specialist expertise is integrated early in the planning process. Through our experience, potential defects become predictable — and in many cases can be prevented altogether.