LUCEM Lichtbeton

Since its unveiling in 2006, light-transmitting concrete has been a popular yet cost-prohibitive technology that reverses our assumptions about concrete, namely that it is opaque. Embedded with optical fibers, light-transmitting concrete allows just what it says: light from one side (the brighter side or a light source, typically) travels via the fibers to make light, pattern and shadows visible on the other side. Expense has restricted the installation of the technology to small applications, but a just completed façade by LUCEM Lichtbeton increases the visibility of light-emitting concrete to those in Berlin.

Most unique about LUCEM's installation with Wolf Architekten for client Udo Krollman is the incorporation of RGB LEDs with DMX-control, giving the façade a great range of color variability and control. LUCEM's description of the installation: "LUCEM is typically supplied in panel format, and installed with a source of light of choice at the rear of the panel. The light travels to the surface of the panel, allowing for a colorful spectacle and an almost magical effect of the light glowing from the inside of the concrete. Current technology allows for RGB-LEDs to be activated and controlled through computer or smart phone - the achievable lighting possibilities range from static colors to colors that can change on demand and the light intensity is also controllable."

The 60sm (645sf) installation is comprised of panels measuring 120cm x 50cm (4' x 1'-8") and 2cm (3/4") thick; LUCEM can create panels up to 150cm x 50cm (5' x 1'-8") at that thickness. The Prenzlauer Berg façade follows LUCEM's 2012 project for RWTH Aachen University, what the company boasts as the first interactive light-transmitting concrete façade. While the new project in Berlin is smaller, its public visibility is sure to spark even more interest in light-transmitting concrete.