Summary

As a building material, precast concrete allows a wide range of sculptural forms and design options. By treating the surface in various ways, fascinating textures and fine finishes can be produced.
This book provides a systematic overview of the variety of applications for such concrete elements throughout Europe. Author David Bennett provides in-depth information on newly developed, especially lightweight forms of concrete such as GRC (Glass-Fibre Reinforced Concrete), Ductal and CRC (Compact Reinforced Composite). A selection of some 24 projects which are of particular significance, are documented in detail and provide a wealth of inspiring design ideas. The appendix comprises an overview of the building practices in the individual European countries and the availability of concrete elements. Amongst the buildings documented are the Scottish Parliament Building in Edinburgh by Enric Miralles Benedetta Tagliabue, the Synagogue in Dresden by Wandel, Hoefer, Lorch + Hirsch, and the Mexican Embassy in Berlin by González de León.