function follows form
Successful balancing act between aesthetics and fire protection for atriums
We have turned this famous design maxim around. Why?
For the sake of architecture and because we like open space concepts. That and how the balancing act between aesthetics and fire protection can succeed with atriums is impressively demonstrated by the extraordinary new construction of the Südwestmetall administration building in Esslingen.
The building of Südwestmetall (Association of the Metal and Electrical Industry Neckar-Fils District Group) stands out with its architecturally sophisticated building structure. Inside, a spacious open atrium is impressive.
For air spaces over several floors, the topic of smoke protection or effective smoke extraction in case of fire plays a key role. Especially if the utilisation concept involves a high number of people.
Perfect fit
Fire protection blends harmoniously into open-plan room concept
Fully integrated into the building structure and almost invisible! Two five-sided smoke aprons with different angles enable aesthetic fire protection in this outstanding reference without interfering with the open architecture.
The challenge
Conciliating aesthetics and fire protection
n the new construction of an office building with an event area for the Südwestmetall Neckar-Fils district group at the Esslingen site, the extravagant building envelope is continued in the design of an open room concept inside.
An atrium running across all floors connects the floors via a transverse staircase and is the central air space with optimal use of daylight.
In case of fire, the floors must be reliably sealed off for smoke control and evacuation. The open architecture was to be retained in its entirety.
The solution
Space-creating smoke skirt with folding technique
The fire protection design is based on an object-specific design basis for possible fire events within the framework of the fire protection concept. The individual floors had to be sealed off to prevent uncontrolled smoke.
Two smoke barriers that are automatically triggered in the event of an alarm therefore follow the polygonal shape of the atrium.
By being installed in false ceilings, the five-sided and space-creating systems with five different angles are not noticed by the observer in the waiting position, but offer protection in case of emergency.
Fire protection that works but is not conspicuous. Because we want to offer solutions in structural fire protection that give architects and planners possibilities to perfectly combine aesthetics and functionality.