From an old granary to a modern horse power exhibition centre with surface heating
Following a two-year construction period, the 100-year-old granary in Einbeck, Germany, was converted into the "PS.Speicher" – the name which translates as the "horse power store" stands for a museum spread over 3,400 m² which is home to one of the biggest collections of historic motorcycles in Europe. This striking building had stood empty for many years due to a lack of ideas of how to use the space as well as the high costs of refurbishment. Eventually the non-profit culture foundation "Kornhaus" came up with the vision of a technical exhibition.
An exhibition centre spread over six floors in this historic building presents a number of structural challenges. A particular challenge was the energy-efficient temperature control of the exhibition space in the old building with a load-bearing timber structure and brickwork.
This made one thing clear to the architects and specialist trade company: "Heat distribution = surface heating". The entire heat distribution concept was implemented using the Fonterra range. The low inflow/return temperature of 35/30°C ensures the responsible use of resources. In addition, the invisible installation over an area of 3,500 m² in both the flooring and walls allows the exhibition areas to be used freely to suit any requirements.
Making use of the flooring and walls
The flexible Fonterra range proved to be advantageous: Originally the Fonterra tacker system was planned for floor heating within the exhibition area. Yet the ceiling structures meant that this plan failed due to the anticipated punctual loading from the exhibits. However, the Fonterra Base studded panel system offered an ideal alternative. The Fonterra Side system was used for wall temperature control.
The sanitary installations were also realised using products from the Viega system world. The cellar and riser pipes are made of stainless steel (Sanpress Inox), the connecting pipes on the storey from the flexible plastic piping system Raxofix and the pre-wall constructions in the sanitary rooms feature products from the Viega Eco Plus range. A high-profile project like the granary requires intensive dialogue between all those involved. This is facilitated by a manufacturer who is able to supply all the decisive installation systems from a single source.