This local community library and sports center located Newcastle, England features a weathered steel facade inspired by the local shipyards in the area.
Designed by architectural firm FaulknerBrowns Architect, the 19,000 square foot 'Hebburn Central' building includes a number of different facilities for the local community including a swimming pool, a library, event space, a dance studio and a sports hall. On the outside of the building, a number of weathered steel panels were laid amongst large glass panels for an interesting mixture of materials. These standardized steel sheets and their rust-red appearance were chosen to pay tribute to the town's history of ship-building and industry.
Large glass panels were placed where additional illumination from natural light was required, and the oxidized steel panels mimicking the appearance of a ship's hull were used for sections requiring a little more privacy and controlled lighting.
Weathered Steel Facades
This Community Center is Covered in an Oxidized Steel Exterior
Trend Themes
1. Weathered Steel Facades - Weathered steel facades will become popular in architecture as more companies and buildings want to pay homage to the industrial history of their areas.
2. Mixed Material Design - Mixed material designs for buildings will become more popular as architects experiment with different materials for unique aesthetics and functions.
3. Standardized Steel Sheets - Standardized steel sheets will become more widely used as building materials due to their durability, cost-effectiveness, and unique aesthetic qualities.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry will need to adapt to the growing trend of incorporating industrial history and mixed materials in building designs.
2. Construction - The construction industry will need to incorporate standardized steel sheets and other weathered materials into their building projects in order to meet the demand for unique aesthetics and cost savings without sacrificing durability.
3. Urban Planning - Urban planning will need to consider the use of standardized steel sheets and other weathered materials as a way to honor the industrial history of the area and create a unique sense of place for visitors and residents alike.