International Architecture – Facades

CRYSTAL – ROCK” FACADE
FOR MIXED – USE BUILDING IN ESSLINGEN
Architects: MVRDV Design
Location: Esslingen, Germany
MVRDV has revealed the design of The Milestone, a new mixed-use office building to
be built in the city of Esslingen, Germany. Featuring a distinct, part-reflective “crystal
rock” facade and a hollowed-out pixilated core, the building will become a standout new
landmark and public amenity for the city.
Located on a public square in Neue Weststadt near the central railway station, The
Milestone will contain 70,000 square feet (6,500 square meters) of mixed-use space
across 12 stories. Inspired by the city’s past and its future ambition, the design will
feature reflective and interactive elements that will educate visitors and residents alike
of the region’s culture and history.
“This building shows Esslingen to people all who pass by on trains and will become a
new symbol to reflect its past heritage and future’; says Winy Maas, MVRDV co-
founder. “The facade with fritted glass will have QR codes integrated on to it informing
visitors about Esslingen’s people, landscape, and histories which makes the building an
interactive library for all:’
From the open plaza, the building steps up towards the ‘esslinger grotto; an open
walkway that punctures through the building and reflects in views from the surrounding
landscape. Upper levels will contain flexible, light-filled office spaces, while ground
level spaces will be occupied by public amenities including a cafe, restaurant and
meeting spaces.