MATERIAL

Corten steel panels and metal cassettes. Solar facade panels.

CHOICE OF FAÇADE

Metal façade and solar panels were a natural choice taking into consideration the vibrant hi-tech nature of Vantaa Energy’s activities. They are also a strong gesture with reference to recycling (cor-ten) and alternative energies (solar panels). Corten steel’s warm brownish color blends nicely with the surrounding environment and with all the seasons of the year as well.

INSPIRATION TO THE FAÇADE

The building’s external appearance results from the creative interplay between three different materials – Corten steel, metal panels, glass – and their surface treatments. The dominant facade motif is formed by Corten steel panels, perforated at three different densities; the ribbon-like bands also function as sunscreens. The irregular perforation pattern and Corten steel’s pleasantly warm color shade result in attractive and expressive facades. At the south facade, electricity-generating solar panels clad the stair tower.

CHOICE OF FASTENINGS

Corten steel panels, surround the building at a distance of 30 cm from the outer skin which consists of PVDF coated metal cassettes with hidden fastening.

Corten panels are 3 mm thick metal plates screwed to the supporting metal frames behind them with the EPDM-tape in between ensuring there is no direct contact between the two materials. The supporting frames are fastened to the façade by a set of 30 cm long metal consoles.

PROCESSING OF THE MATERIAL

Metal cassettes – PVDF coating
Corten – naturally rusted

CHANGE OF THE MATERIAL

Corten is weathering steel. Once it reaches its maximum level of corrosion it will not change any more and will not need any maintenance.

WATER DRAINAGE AND ROOF SAFETY

Rainwater is directed to the rainwater wells and then vertically through the building to the main rainwater sewage.
The roof is accessible only for maintenance purposes and its safety is taken care of accordingly with Finnish regulations.

SPEAKER: Bratislav Toskovic
PROJECT: Vantaa Energy Headquarters
FINISHED YEAR: 2017
ARCHITECT: Parviainen Architects