Monochrome waves

The Bysa & Sandis complex surges over an area of 14,000 m² and this Helsinki apartment building – containing 144 individual apartments – is truly striking. Its creative form and the elegant, contemporary building envelope make a significant impact on the urban landscape of the new residential area. 

The visual structure of the façade was created by using the two-tone colours of Superwhite Retro and Dark Pellava Retro facing bricks from the Wienerberger Koria series. The white and pale grey bricks have a dynamic structure and form the concave inner curve of the building as well as the convex north side. Clinker bricks in the same shade as the concrete elements were used on the north side. “As architects, we want to create a unique look using limited resources,” says Samuli Miettinen, architect at JKMM Architects in Helsinki. “Collaboration with an expert from the brick industry was vital in enabling us to find and develop new possibilities.”
 
The same bond was used for both brick façades. In this bond method, part of the excess mortar spreads over the brick surface. “Firstly, this bond method lightens the overall appearance. Secondly, it smooths out the differences between the parallel brick façades, which were created using different techniques,” explains Miettinen.

The unusual façade was inspired by an art gallery in Berlin. Durability and low maintenance requirements were the key factors that convinced the developers to use these bricks. The maritime location of the property also places increased demands on the weather-resistance of the façade solution. After a test-based selection process, they decided to use a 100 % cement-based mortar for both the brickwork and the pointing. A hydrophobing agent that prevents the ingress of water into the construction was added to the mortar to counteract the high moisture load.
 
Modelling, choosing the right methods and the coordination of three different teams on the construction site were all challenges, but all culminating in a successful and harmonious result. “The originality of the building is important, but so is a harmonious cityscape. Architects must always take previous buildings and designs into account while improving the current situation,” says Samuli Miettinen. “I hope that the residents will realise that this place is something special, in particular due to the architecture.”