The Kebony marketing team had the privilege of taking an extensive tour of Europe this summer, visiting several project sites, manufacturing facilities, and meeting building professionals who are utilizing Kebony throughout the continent. Below is a glimpse of several standout projects that are beautifying their communities and contributing to sustainable building practices.
De Rekke School, Belgium
De Rekke School is a Belgian school in the town of Staboek. The town is 775 years old, and has a long tradition of excellence in education. The school was built before before World War I, and is a pillar in the community. The new addition using Kebony cladding brings in light and nature, which is very important to the educational culture of the school. It also allows for the community to use the new gym and dance studio.
Bois-le-Roi Residence, France
Bois-Le-Rois, France is near the famous Fountainebleu Forest. Architects Catherine and Manuel met in architecture school, and were working in different practices until 2020. During the COVID pandemic they decided to start a company together, focusing on homes and small commercial projects in their town. The home is very modern, and surrounded by old stone homes that are over 100 years old. It was originally all stucco, but once they added Kebony the community has embraced the modern aesthetic and even come to the home to find what wood they used. After traveling around the world they have a deeper appreciation for the environment and the need to focus on building sustainably.
Tempelhof Airport, Germany
Tempelhof was one of Europe’s three iconic pre-World War II airports, the others being London’s now defunct Croydon Airport and the old Paris–Le Bourget Airport. It acquired a further iconic status as the centre of the Berlin Airlift of 1948–49. One of the airport’s most distinctive features is its huge, canopy-style roof extending over the apron, able to accommodate most contemporary airliners in the 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s, protecting passengers from the elements. Tempelhof Airport’s main building was once among the twenty largest buildings on earth.
Kebony was utilized for the rooftop walkway and viewing platform on the historic airport tower. Opened to the public on July 20, 2022, the new installation THF Tower marks a significant step in the regeneration of the former aviation centre, which closed its hanger doors in 2008. The wood-panelled rooftop terrace creates a new exhibition and event space, offering visitors not only stunning views across the skyline of the German capital, but an expansive viewing platform to experience the regular programme of cultural events hosted at the airport, including trade fairs, concerts such as annual Tempelhof Sounds festival, and sports events including the 2023 Berlin Formula E-Prix. Kebony Clear decking was selected to give the space a durable and visually sophisticated finish.
Lindesnes Cabin, Norway
Located in southernmost tip of Norway, this architect’s getaway cabin was designed with sustainability in mind, even down to the built-in furniture to reduce potential landfill waste. Kebony was chosen for this project due to its ability to be recycled after use. The home, nestled in the lakeside hills, provides a sanctuary away from the city and a place for extended family to gather year-round.