Natural stones, namely marbles, are undoubtedly the product of choice when it comes to sustainability. These stones are eco-friendly and last a long time before they show any signs of erosion. These stones come in a variety of colors to satisfy every taste. Still, when it comes to the façade architecture, some might associate stone buildings with only the ancient and dark gothic architectures. Here are some structures that go beyond expectations in using natural stones. You may see the flame of desire for a stone façade enlightened in you once you see what others are creating with marble and other stones. Without further ado, let us check out some of these mesmerizing structures.
Hudson Yards; the new hotspot
First, comes the glass and limestone building in Hudson Yards. Westside Manhattan is home to Hudson Yards. Only a few minutes away from Times Square, this place is the new eye-catching spot recently. This skyscraper has its stones coming from the quarries in Germany shipped all over to the building site. Due to the lack of space, the materials have to go through installation once they arrive. Therefore, planning the building process is of grave matter. The building showcases different materials depending on where you stand. You could either witness the glory and allure that limestone exudes or see the reflection of the sky on its glass. Workers had to process around 130 stone elements to supply the building stones of this project daily. Once finished, an estimated 120,000 people will either work or reside in this complex.
Argul Weave in Bursa, Turkey
The next stop is the Argul Weave, located in Bursa, Turkey. The architecture reflects its full effect in the façade of this mind-blowing structure. The location attracts businesses and aims to modify the atmosphere of the district. Since the aim was to achieve continuity throughout the work, we witness the reduction of the number of used materials to the possible extent. One can not help but see the glory of this landmark. As the Argul Weave manifests the great minds of its builders. The surreal sinuous bandings on this building are of marbles coming from the Turkish quarries. The plinths are also of unique red and dark marbles.
Italy Pavilion Milan Expo 2015
This prize-winning architecture might come off as otherworldly and bizarre at first glance. However, let not this speculation scare you off. The façade may not show traces of marble or any other stone, for that matter. The truth is that this façade can capture the air pollution and give off salt compositions. This process leads to better air quality. 80% of the mortar comes from recycled goods, including marble scraps coming from quarries. This addition is to increase the sheen that the surface emits. The façade includes string-shaped lines that conjoin and go over one another, forming a random and futuristic outlook. Using the already present materials in a contemporary design with state-of-the-art vigor is a game-changing trick.
Paddenstoelenhuis by Mulders vandenBerk Architecten, based in Berghem, The Netherlands
This information office includes functional work areas, namely offices and a kitchen room. The Norwegian marble granules form the material of this façade partly along with other forms of marble. This design is innovative and changes the spectacle by bringing new energy to the environment. Also, the architecture takes the attention off of the nearby mushroom plantation area. The light grey façade keeps the exterior lively and bright. The joints are seamless due to the hand-cut stones that make up the outlook. The unique installation of the ivory-colored stones makes the tactile look wavy and uneven.
Marble House by Openbox Architecting team; located in Bangkok, Thailand
Last but not least on our list is a home with a façade like no other. We dare say a house exists somewhere in the marble exterior sculpture, as the architects also claim was the main aim to achieve. The upper marble seen is actually to convey a floating-like experience. The sparsely used marbles in other parts are similar to the pieces of the mother space shift that floats above. This residual marble scattered on the landmark is isolated yet connected somehow to the same root that elevates further above.
