Membrane roof Senefelder Platz
We have erected a permanent marble roof for the marble sculpture by Alois Senefelder on Senefelderplatz in Berlin. This sets new standards in monument protection for freestanding sculptures.
Protecting valuable outdoor sculptures is an important aspect of monument preservation. In the Pankow district, a new approach has been taken with the original marble sculpture by Alois Senefelder: the statue is to be permanently safeguarded from weather influences.
For this project, a prototype has been developed to provide fundamental insights into monument protection. The design features a clear and simple form language. The minimalist canopy structure offers protection from intense sunlight and rain throughout the year, while still allowing passersby to view the sculpture clearly. This creates a balance between weather protection and public presentation.
A translucent membrane fabric is used to prevent shadows or dark corners, instead producing a diffuse light that positively enhances the viewing experience. The steel framework is constructed with minimal structural elements: the four masts are connected at the apex with a stiff, rigid joint, which has been kept as small as possible despite the static requirements. The membrane is tensioned by a steel cable hidden within a radial cable pocket, which is routed through discreet brackets at the corners. To prevent heat buildup and condensation under the roof, ventilation openings are integrated into the membrane on the sides.
Despite a very tight schedule for manufacturing and installation, the project successfully met the targeted budget.
3dtex GmbH: Design, implementation planning, membrane production and membrane installation
Client: Straßen und Grünflächenamt Pankow
Statics: Ingenieurbüro Hedler
Fabrication: Karsten Daedler e.K. Hamburg
Material: Sattler Pro-Tex
Completion: 2024, Berlin
Weather and winter enclosures to protect sculptures
The protection of sculptures and art objects exposed to the elements is a key issue in monument protection and art conservation. In European cities and parks in particular, a wide range of weather and winter enclosures are used to protect valuable sculptures from the effects of weather, frost, UV radiation and pollution.
Current findings and research results
Between 2006 and 2010, a major research project by the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) investigated the possibilities of enclosing Carrara marble sculptures on the Berlin Palace Bridge. It was confirmed that a suitable enclosure can significantly slow down the weathering process of marble. However, the study also showed that winter enclosure alone is not enough to protect the substance in the long term, as weathering takes place in both winter and summer. The most important finding is that optimal protection requires year-round weather protection that protects against frost, UV rays and the effects of pollutants.
The protection of outdoor sculptures and works of art is a complex challenge that requires a careful selection and combination of different protection systems. Modern weather and winter enclosures offer a wide range of options to effectively protect works of art from harmful weather influences such as frost, UV radiation, rain, snow and pollutants.
The choice of a suitable system depends on various factors, including the type of artwork, local climatic conditions, the duration of protection required, as well as aesthetic and budgetary considerations. Traditional wooden structures are proven and durable, but have disadvantages in terms of weight and maintenance. Innovative textile membranes and flexible protection systems, on the other hand, offer lighter, lower-maintenance alternatives that also enable better ventilation and minimize condensation.
Current research projects, such as the DBU project to enclose Carrara marble sculptures, have shown that year-round, well-designed weather protection can significantly slow down weathering. Nevertheless, it has become clear that protection in winter alone is not enough to preserve the substance in the long term. The weathering processes take place continuously in both summer and winter, which is why a holistic approach is necessary.
Therefore, a combination of permanent protective measures, regular maintenance and inspection as well as individual adaptation of the protection systems to the respective needs of the artworks is recommended. This is the only way to ensure the longevity of the sculptures and preserve their cultural value in the long term.
Overall, investing in modern, sustainable weather protection systems is a sensible way of protecting works of art from a wide range of environmental influences, preserving their aesthetic impact and minimizing the costs of costly restoration work in the future.
Basics and current developments in sculpture protection systems
Modern enclosure systems for sculptures can be categorized into different types:
Wooden structures: One of the oldest and most proven methods, used in parks since the 19th century. They are characterized by low material costs, weather resistance, environmental compatibility and a unique aesthetic form. However, they are relatively heavy, require regular maintenance and are associated with high storage, transportation and installation costs for temporary applications.
Supporting structures with membranes: This involves the use of metal or wooden scaffolding covered with textile or plastic membranes. These systems offer flexible protection solutions, are lighter and can be easily adapted to different objects.
Direct wrapping without supporting structure: This variant uses coated or uncoated fabrics, nonwovens or films that are placed directly around the sculpture. They are particularly suitable for temporary protective measures.
Plexiglas or polycarbonate glass: Transparent material provides visibility and protection at the same time and is often used for permanent or semi-permanent protection systems.
Individual constructions: Tents, cladding or special protective covers tailored specifically to the artwork in question.
Advantages and challenges of modern weather protection systems
Traditional wooden structures are durable, weatherproof and breathable, but have disadvantages such as high weight, complex storage and assembly as well as potential hazards during handling. There is also a risk of condensation forming on closed systems, which can damage the sculpture.
Modern, innovative protection systems rely on lightweight, flexible materials such as textile membranes that allow diffuse light to pass through and therefore do not impair the viewing of the artwork. Integrated ventilation systems minimize condensation, which further improves protection.