The Maskinhallen is the largest exhibition hall at the Technical Museum. In 2021, an extensive renovation of the protected building (Q-marked building in Sweden) was carried out, where both the roof and interior walls were replaced. Architects from AIX Arkitekter were commissioned to design the renovation and find a replacement material for the hazardous asbestos boards that previously covered the interior. Perforated panels from Rockpanel were chosen to preserve the room's original look and feel while minimizing noise.
The Technical Museum in Stockholm is Sweden's largest technical museum. Since its opening in 1936, the museum has been a fun attraction for both children and adults who want to learn more about Swedish inventors and inventions. The Maskinhallen is a true example of 1930s functionalist architecture.
The Maskinhallen underwent a major renovation in 2021, including the replacement of the asbestos boards on the roof and interior walls with environmentally friendly panels that offer similar aesthetics and enhanced functionality. Panels made by Rockpanel were chosen, containing natural materials in the form of basalt and up to 50% recycled material. These panels contribute to a circular economy, as they can be recycled and reused repeatedly without losing quality.
Culturally protected buildings impose higher demands
A protected building (q-marked building) is a building officially recognized as having special historical or architectural interest and therefore cannot be altered. This may mean, for example, that the building is protected from demolition or that the existing design and details must be preserved. The latter was the case for The Maskinhallen.
"We work extensively with culturally protected buildings, it's something we're used to. The Maskinhallen is culturally protected, which means we have to report and justify the changes we need to make to the County Administrative Board. You can also receive support for restoring certain original details, such as the lanterns. We also had to work with materials that did not significantly reduce the cultural value," explains Odd Fries, architect at AIX, and continues:
"We therefore started looking for replacement materials for the unhealthy asbestos boards that would not alter the space. Eventually, we found Rockpanel boards, which we could bend properly and perforate to create a sound-absorbing effect, while resembling the original boards. So, we were very happy when we found the product and we have received a lot of help and support from Rockpanel. It has been a safe and smooth process with a great result."
Perforated panels improve acoustics
The Rockpanel boards have been perforated to enhance acoustics and create a sound-absorbing effect. It also improves ventilation and makes the room more user-friendly, without being too noticeable. According to Dzevad Subasic, the property manager of the Technical Museum, acoustics are crucial for a large space like The Maskinhallen, which is why the Rockpanel boards are a good fit.
“Our previous panels didn't provide good acoustics. However, that is crucial, especially for our visitors. We often conduct tours for classes and larger groups, and effective guidance is impossible if sound echoes throughout the large space. Therefore, we're thrilled with the outcome after installing the Rockpanel boards. It's a very nice material," concludes Dzevad Subasic.
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