Culture meets bird protection

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The Bregenz Festival Theatre is not only an architectural icon, but also a pioneer in terms of modern and sustainable construction methods. The project relied on a special innovation for the redesign: GM LIGHT CHROME bird protection glass. This glass not only protects birds from collisions, but also opens up fascinating design possibilities and contributes to the building's energy efficiency.

A glass that can do more

GM LIGHT CHROME offers a unique combination of bird protection and architectural freedom. A special multi-layer process is used to apply permanent, high-contrast patterns to the glass surface, which are clearly recognisable by birds but hardly affect the transparency of the building. The highly reflective coating creates impressive plays of light that enhance the overall appearance of the façade and make the building look even more impressive. With its durability and the possibility of using it both indoors and outdoors, GM Light Chrome offers architects a wide range of design options. Colourful prints and complex patterns are easy to implement and can be integrated into sophisticated architectural concepts without compromising on sustainability. The Swiss Ornithological Institute in Sempach also recommends GM LIGHT CHROME bird protection glass, as it makes clear in its edition of «Bird-friendly building with glass». Quote: «An exemplary implementation can also be found at the Frauenfeld military base: the glass front of the catering centre is fitted with a pattern to prevent bird collisions.»

Overall glass concept

In addition to the bird protection glass, the large-scale glazing of the entire façade, the entrance area of the workshop stage and the panoramic window on the 3rd floor characterise the architectural appearance of the Festspielhaus. These glass elements emphasise the clear lines of the building and give the modern architecture additional depth and elegance.

Sun protection from above

The 12 large-area roof glazing units, which utilise the specially developed UNIGLAS® SUN solar control glass, are also particularly noteworthy. This high-performance insulating glass not only provides optimum light and heat protection, but also makes a significant contribution to the building's energy efficiency. The high light transmission creates a friendly and bright room atmosphere inside the festival theatre, while the solar control function ensures pleasant temperatures. This creates a perfect balance between transparency and comfort.