Zollhafen Mainz – Broken Clinker as a Design Element
The architecture of Zollhafen Mainz reflects the rugged history of the harbor area – and it is precisely this authenticity that blrm architekten capture in their façade design. Instead of flawless surfaces, they opt for broken clinker. Each brick carries a unique texture, created through deliberate striking. This handcrafted technique gives the material a powerful, raw appearance, revealing the original tactile quality of the fired clay.
In interplay with the architecture, a dynamic dialogue emerges between materiality and form. While the clear lines of the building convey a modern, minimalist language, the broken clinker deliberately evokes an archaic character. It tells a story of the past, of craftsmanship, and of the patina that buildings develop over time.
The irregular surface catches the light in ways that a smooth surface never could. Depending on the time of day and weather conditions, the fractured edges shift between deep shadows and shimmering reflections. This dynamic effect brings the façade to life and lends it a distinctive identity.
With this conscious material choice, blrm architekten make a bold statement for architectural authenticity. The broken clinker not only represents a raw, original aesthetic but also refers to the craftsmanship and origins of the material itself. Every building in Zollhafen Mainz thus carries a piece of history within it – a contrast to the smoothness and uniformity of modern architecture.
