Fifth "Architecture + Office XXL" innovation prize awarded

In the course of the Orgatec 2008 international office exhibition in Cologne the "Architecture and Office XXL" innovation prize award presentations were made in the historic building of the Design Post on 21 October 2008. For the fifth time the architecture magazines "AIT" and "xia IntelligenteArchitektur" organised this competition, which is aimed at designers and manufacturers of office furniture and equipment.

A jury consisting of five well-known architects evaluated the 85 entries which were submitted and, as the winner, chose the concrete wall panels made by REC Bauelemente GmbH for their functional and design quality, material properties and diversity of application. REC Bauelemente GmbH develops materials and technologies with the aim of providing architects and designers with innovative materials which will unlock new design potential.

The members of the jury were Ante Anin, Anin Jeromin & Fitilidis, Düsseldorf, Natalia Meiners, Chapman Taylor Architekten, Düsseldorf, Gerd Mrohs, KSP Engel and Zimmermann Architekten, Cologne, Lutz Büsing, Ingenhoven Architekten, Düsseldorf and Markus Sporer, Benthem Crouwel Architects, Aachen.

For REC the innovation prize means a satisfying and important recognition of its intensive development work in the field of new materials for architecture and design. Aware that innovation and new design options are highly dependent on the development of new materials and technologies, REC Bauelemente has achieved a high level of expertise with its commitment to these goals. The wall panels which won the award offer a wide diversity of design possibilities in the construction and extension of buildings. In addition to the functional aspect, the attractiveness and appeal of the materials can be highlighted, together with the feature of dignified ageing.

As part of a publicly funded research project REC Bauelemente is currently developing sound-absorbing facade panels which are self-cleaning.