The Renaissance of Lightweight Concrete in Architecture

Lightweight concrete is a highly appropriate material for the often contradictory requirements of massive construction and low-level energy transfer elements. Monolithic construction obviates the need for complicated multi-layered insulation, and the plane of fenestration can range from flush with the interior to flush with the exterior without cold-bridging or complicated detailing. Due to the low density and resultant lack of weight of lightweight concrete, large spans with a minimum of intermediate columns can be achieved in addition to optimal vibration characteristics. That finished surfaces of exposed lightweight concrete can be of markedly high quality is demonstrated not only by numerous single family dwellings, but also larger constructions like the Courthouse in Frankfurt/Oder by the architects Bumiller & Junkers.