Ceramic facade systems offer numerous functional and aesthetic advantages. A key one is the possibility to create sophisticated light and shadow effects and other subtle impressions using three-dimensional surfaces - and to do so permanently, because unlike other materials, ceramics is absolutely colour- and light-fast, so that undesirable visual changes are not an issue. Agrob Buchtal is now expanding its range of three-dimensional facade ceramics for the digital trade fair BAU 2021 with the two new surfaces Canyon and Keijo: they were created in close cooperation with the product designer Markus Bischof and are deliberately designed in contrasting ways to offer an architecturally appealing range.
Canyon: the perfection of the imperfect
This supposedly contradictory term describes an exciting intention: irregularly fine “steps” and grooves in combination with striking “ridges” result in an attractive dialogue which abstractly is reminiscent of the delicate and at the same time rocky-rough stratifications and plateaus of the Grand Canyon in the US state of Nevada. Canyon ceramically translates this unbridled power of nature and the interplay of the elements over millions of years. Used on a larger surface, the whole then joins together to form a ceramic tailor-made suit which conveys sovereignty and homogeneity thanks to the special design: on the one hand, because the joints along the individual tiles (e.g. in the 30 x 120 cm format) recede into the background and are almost imperceptible, and on the other hand, because despite the asymmetry of the profile, a harmonious overall appearance is created - in other words, "the perfection of the imperfect"... In addition, there are further refinements: the design, which is distinct in the true sense of the word, creates changing effects depending on the time of day, the position of the sun and the viewing position: light and shadow thus become natural means of design and offer aesthetic added value. The building envelope is permanently enhanced by this unobtrusive and natural visual revitalization, which has an equal effect from close and far distances.
Kaijo: pulsating dynamism
This surface takes a different approach: three-dimensionality is created here not by elevations but by recesses - a consideration which makes use of the plastic properties of extruded ceramics in the moist, unfired state with orientation to archaic artisanal processing techniques (Kaijo = borrowed from japanese "embossing"). Through "ordered irregularity", embossments of different lengths and depths with constant width and direction result in a ceramic curtain facade in a double sense, namely related to the construction principle ("curtain-type") and the visual impression, which in the broadest sense evokes associations with a curtain or drape with partially woven thickened threads or other nobly veiling textures. The result is pulsating dynamism of a discreet kind which does not impose itself in an obtrusive manner: restrained from a distance, the fine rhythms become more and more apparent as one gets closer. In an urban context in particular, this can lend buildings an individual face even in narrow street canyons, which captivates with its gentle charms and yet integrates coherently into the respective environment.
Different and yet related
Despite the intentional stylistic difference, both novelties share a number of common features. The characteristics of Canyon and Kaijo particularly typically show to advantage in the unglazed earthy shades of the Natura collection. In order to use reflections as an additional stylistic device, numerous glazed variants are also available in the nuances of the SpectraView colour system specially developed for facades. The world of formats is similarly versatile and individual: both surfaces can be produced in various grid formats (heights from 15 to 60 cm and lengths up to 180 cm) to suit specific projects.
Another common feature is the variability in installation, which further expands the creative scope: thanks to the intelligently designed KeraTwin K20 fastening system from Agrob Buchtal, the application can be horizontal, vertical, as a bond (e.g. semi- bond) or, in extreme cases, even diagonal by means of a special solution.
Both novelties were developed in close, fruitful cooperation between Agrob Buchtal and Markus Bischof (born 1980). After completing his apprenticeship as a joiner/carpenter in 1998, he studied Integrated Product Design at the Coburg University of Applied Sciences. This was followed in 2005 by his work with Karim Rashid in New York City. From 2008, Bischof played a key role in shaping the look of Trumpf punching and laser machines, before establishing his own design office in Nuremberg in 2010. There, he has created several hundreds of concepts, designs and products for various industries since then, which have been awarded a number of renowned international prizes. Bischof appreciates materials which are authentic, honest, aesthetic and sustainable, which arouse emotions, provide impetus and open up imaginative perspectives - all aspects that are fulfilled by architectural ceramics and coincide with Agrob Buchtal's self-image, so that the collaboration ultimately was only a logical consequence.
www.markusbischof.de
Press contact
Gabriele Busse (Press officer / Senior PR Manager)
T. +49 (0)228 391-1104
M. +49 (0)151 14976931
Email: gabriele.busse@deutsche-steinzeug.de
