Innovative façade architecture: The architectural mesh façade of the Bonn Hardthöhe parking structure captivates with its textile character and dynamic transparency, creating a striking visual identity while subtly integrating into the urban context. Photo © N. Kazakov
The architectural mesh façade of the Bonn Hardthöhe parking garage in Germany is an example of how careful material selection and planning can enhance the form and function of architecture.
By Haver & Boecker
The new parking garage at the Ministry of Defence in Bonn’s Hardthöhe district shows how methodical material selection and precise planning can enhance the form and function of architecture. In cooperation with Goldbeck West GmbH, which realised the parking garage on behalf of the Federal Office for Building and Regional Planning (BBR), this façade solution is outfitted with Largo-Nova 2032 Vario stainless steel mesh from HAVER & BOECKER, combining architectural standards, technical performance and sustainability. The design brief was drawn up by the planning office AMP Parking Europe GmbH from Hamburg, Germany.
Aesthetic meets functionality
With a surface area of around 3,400 m², the façade was designed not only as a functional element, but as an integral part of the architectural design. The Largo-Nova 2032 Vario stainless steel mesh used stands out with its fine-looking, textile structure, accentuated by horizontal block stripes. These stripes are created by integrating varying mesh sizes within a single mesh element – a special design feature that creates different degrees of transparency and a lively façade look.
Depending on the viewpoint and lighting, the visual effect of the fabric changes, offering a dynamic play on light, transparency and depth. Open area percentages of 39%, 45% and 55% ensure pleasant lighting conditions as well as optimal air flow, creating an open, inviting atmosphere throughout the structure.
Safety, ventilation, protection
In addition to its visual effect, the architectural mesh fulfils several functional requirements: it protects the building from the elements, enables optimal ventilation, and provides a sense of privacy. In addition, the entire façade cladding offers the highest level of fall protection, ensuring safety for both garage occupants and pedestrians.
Durable and recyclable
The selected stainless steel mesh not only offers aesthetic durability but also supports sustainable planning through corrosion-resistant, maintenance-free, and fully recyclable characteristics.
Installed using the proven HAVER MeshLock fastening system, quick assembly was possible despite complex building geometries. The 2.45 m wide, 11.5 m long mesh panels stretch over the entire height of the façade.
A solid substructure to absorb the resulting vertical loads is required only at the upper and lower fastening points.
Planning security
HAVER Architectural Mesh offers technical planning and design freedom – from the initial design idea to implementation in detail. Whether as façade cladding, sun protection, or fall protection, Haver & Boecker’s architectural mesh supports a wide range of urban and safety-critical applications.
The façade of the Bonn Hardthöhe multi-story car park is an example of how functional elements can evolve into powerful architectural statements – clear, robust, and architecturally convincing.
About Haver & Boecker
The family-owned company, headquartered in Oelde, Westphalia, Germany, was founded in 1887. Today, the company operates two divisions: Wire Weaving and Machinery. Haver & Boecker’s Wire Weaving Division, with its global network of subsidiaries and production facilities, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial woven wire cloth. Its product range includes thousands of different wire mesh types, which can be processed into technical wire mesh products. These are used for screening and filtration in industries such as chemicals, plastics, automotive, aerospace, electronics, industrial and analytical screening, food production, water treatment, as well as for architectural applications.
About this Featured Story
First appearing in the November 2025 issue of Stainless Steel World magazine, this Featured Story is just one of many insightful articles we publish. Subscribe today to receive 10 issues a year, available monthly in print and digital formats. – SUBSCRIPTIONS TO OUR DIGITAL VERSION ARE NOW FREE.
Every week we share a new Featured Story with our Stainless Steel community. Join us and let’s share your Featured Story on Stainless Steel World online and in print.