Car parks can no longer be viewed in isolation within today's urban development; they form an integral part of the urban infrastructure. Their design significantly shapes the appearance of modern cities. Innovative facade concepts, for instance, utilising Tonality ceramic baguettes from Leipfinger-Bader, enable the creation of structures that combine functionality with enhanced aesthetics. Made from regionally sourced raw materials, these ceramic elements contribute to natural ventilation and meet high standards for sustainability and durability. Their weather and UV-resistant surface, complemented by permanent graffiti protection, positions them as an economical and low-maintenance solution for contemporary buildings.
The economic relevance of car parks is significant; according to Statista, the German market generates billions in revenue annually. Beyond merely housing vehicles, these structures serve as calling cards for city centres, shopping malls, and railway stations. Architects and developers face the challenge of reconciling design aspirations with practical requirements, such as reliable ventilation. In the past, this often necessitated compromises in architectural freedom. An appealing design, particularly through an open and well-conceived building envelope, not only contributes to modernity but also enhances users' sense of security, especially for women.
Leipfinger-Bader developed Tonality ceramic baguettes specifically for use as a facade solution for car parks. These long-format, hollow ceramic elements offer a modern design combined with lifelong maintenance-free performance and durability. They are available with square or round cross-sections and are affixed vertically to the facade using special mounting systems. The length of individual elements can be customised for each project. Colour design options range from earth tones to shades of grey, with smooth or textured surfaces. The production of the elements in a hanging state ensures high surface quality without production marks. The open arrangement of the baguettes allows for natural ventilation, which complies with current fire protection and ventilation regulations while elegantly integrating the necessary ventilation slots into the facade.
Ceramic as a facade material is equally convincing in terms of sustainability and resilience. Tonality products are manufactured from natural raw materials sourced regionally in the Westerwald. They exhibit high resistance to weathering and UV radiation. The special firing process at high temperatures prevents the absorption of urban dirt or fine dust, ensuring the facade remains clean permanently. The integrated graffiti protection allows for easy removal of paint defacements. Low maintenance, easy cleaning, and a long service life lead to low operating costs over the entire lifecycle of the building.
Tonality ceramic is also suitable for the refurbishment of existing car parks, as its low dead weight allows for straightforward installation on almost any substrate. Given the increasing importance of multifunctional and resource-efficient concepts in urban development, car parks with innovative facade solutions can evolve into model projects. They transform formerly functional, aged structures into attractive and safe spaces that enhance the urban landscape and are economically compelling. The combination of durability, low maintenance, and design versatility pre-destines Tonality ceramic for municipalities and developers who wish to make a statement for sustainable architecture in addition to functionality. Utilising the potential of these often underestimated structures to create a forward-looking character is significant.
