Powder coating has transformed the world of architecture by providing a durable, versatile and aesthetically pleasing finish to buildings and structures. As an industry leader in powder coating, Tomburn has helped numerous commercial projects achieve high-quality finishes that not only enhance the appearance but also improve the longevity of various structures.
This article explores five remarkable examples of buildings around the world that feature powder coated finishes and explains why this finish was likely chosen for these iconic structures.
1. The Shard – London, UK
The Shard, western Europe’s tallest building, is an iconic feature of London’s skyline. Standing at 310 metres, the glass-clad skyscraper’s architectural metalwork is powder coated to achieve a sleek, contemporary look. Powder coating was an ideal choice for this building for several reasons:
- Durability: Given its height and exposure to the elements, The Shard’s exterior needs a finish that can withstand the changing weather, UV rays and potential corrosion. Powder coating offers excellent resistance to these factors, protecting the underlying metalwork.
- Aesthetic appeal: Powder coating provides a uniform, high-quality finish that helps maintain The Shard’s modern appearance over time. Its colour and sheen can be customised to match the architect’s vision precisely.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge – Sydney, Australia
Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most famous landmarks, is known for its striking design and massive steel arches. While its traditional paint finish is well known, powder coating has been used in various parts of its refurbishment.
- Corrosion resistance: The bridge’s location exposes it to high levels of humidity, saltwater and pollutants. Powder coating provides a robust barrier against rust and corrosion, helping to ensure that the bridge remains structurally sound for years.
- Environmental benefits: Unlike traditional liquid paints, powder coatings are free of harmful solvents and VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making it a more environmentally friendly choice for large-scale refurbishments.
3. Beijing National Stadium (“Bird’s Nest”) – Beijing, China
The Bird’s Nest stadium, built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is known for its unique, crisscrossing steel structure that resembles a bird’s nest. Powder coating played a significant role in the finish of this architectural marvel.
- Protection in harsh conditions: Beijing’s air quality and climate can be tough on exposed structures. Powder coating was likely used to protect the steel framework from pollution, moisture and UV damage.
- Vibrant colour options: The stadium’s iconic look required a finish that would retain its colour vibrancy and resist fading over time. Powder coatings provide a range of colour options that stay true, even when exposed to harsh conditions.
4. Khalifa International Stadium – Doha, Qatar
As one of the stadiums for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Khalifa International Stadium underwent extensive renovations, including the addition of a powder coated exterior.
- Heat resistance: Qatar’s extreme heat makes powder coating an ideal choice for this stadium, as it offers excellent thermal stability and UV protection. The finish helps to keep the structure cooler and prevents the coating from cracking or peeling under intense sun exposure.
- Long-lasting protection: Powder coating extends the life of metal surfaces by providing superior resistance to scratches, abrasions and general wear and tear, essential for a stadium that hosts thousands of visitors regularly.
5. Pompidou Center – Paris, France
The Pompidou Center, a high-tech architectural landmark in Paris, is known for its inside-out design, with structural elements such as ducts, pipes and escalators placed on the exterior. The brightly coloured exterior metal components feature powder coated finishes that make the building stand out.
- Colour customisation: The building’s colour scheme serves both decorative and functional purposes, with different colours used to denote different structural functions (blue for air ducts, green for plumbing, etc.). Powder coating offers an array of vibrant colour choices to meet these specifications while maintaining colour stability.
- Weather resistance: Exposed metal parts on the exterior are prone to rust and degradation due to rain and pollution. Powder coating helps to shield these elements from environmental damage, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
Why choose powder coating for architectural projects?
These structures highlight why powder coating is a preferred finish for architectural projects around the world:
- Durability and longevity: Powder coatings form a hard, protective layer that is resistant to chipping, scratching and fading. This makes it ideal for structures exposed to the elements, ensuring long-term performance.
- Environmentally friendly: Powder coating emits no VOCs, making it a more sustainable choice than traditional paints. Additionally, any overspray can be recycled, reducing waste.
- Colour and finish versatility: With a wide range of colours and textures available, powder coating can be tailored to meet specific design requirements, making it an excellent choice for creative and functional finishes.
- Cost-effective maintenance: Powder coated surfaces require minimal upkeep, which translates to lower maintenance costs over the lifespan of the structure.
Conclusion
The Shard, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Beijing’s Bird’s Nest, Khalifa International Stadium and the Pompidou Center are just a few examples that showcase the benefits of powder coating in modern architecture. At Tomburn, we understand the importance of providing high-quality powder coating finishes for commercial projects, ensuring that your structures are not only visually stunning but also protected from the elements for years to come. Whether it’s for iconic landmarks or everyday commercial applications, powder coating continues to be an indispensable choice in the architectural world.
For more information on how Tomburn can assist with your commercial powder coating needs contact us today.
