The Paper Museum in the Düren region of Germany pays homage to the area’s rich history of paper production. Its distinctive appearance, reminiscent of an origami figurine, is achieved through a smooth, bright white rendered facade.
Bright White Render
Hollenbeck Architekten faced a significant challenge in ensuring that the folded-paper white facade maintained its pristine appearance without yellowing over time. To address this, a layer of paint called StoColor Dryonic was applied to the render, providing effective protection against discoloration.
The effectiveness of the Sto protective coating was evident in its ability to safeguard the render, eliminating the need for frequent facade cleaning. As a result, the allocated budget for cleaning the facade every two years remained untouched.
Embossed Facade
The design of the museum drew inspiration from the three archetypes of paper processing, reflected in the folded appearance of the facade and window openings. The embossed museum lettering on the outer wall adds a tactile element, inviting visitors to engage with the building’s identity. Depending on the viewing angle and light conditions, subtle “watermarks” become visible on the facade, further enhancing its visual interest.
The lettering “Papiermuseum Düren” stands out against the white plaster facade, offering both a visually striking element and inclusivity for visually impaired visitors through the incorporation of Braille signage.
The Sto ventilated rainscreen cladding facade System (StoVentec R) was chosen for its versatility, allowing for customized render texture techniques to create a watermark effect. This clever design not only establishes a connection between the old and new Düren Paper Museums but also pays homage to the material itself.
- Location: Düren, Germany
- Year: 2018
- Architects: Hollenbeck Architekten
- Products: StoVentec R, StoSignature, StoColor Dryonic
Application and Use in Construction
The facade finishes, utilizing plaster material, are specifically designed for exterior applications, offering synthetic properties suitable for outdoor environments.
