The Swarovski Veil is a unique design that leverages the reflective properties of a metal weave, a material traditionally used in medieval chain armor. The veil, made of corrosion- and weather-resistant stainless steel mesh, consists of around 26,250,000 separate interlocked links, making it the world’s largest single surface made of metal ring mesh. The veil's transparency is held in place by a 10-meter high steel stringer, creating a complex and aesthetically pleasing support structure.
The design's inspiration comes from the natural interplay of sunlight and clouds. During the day, the sunlight interacts with the veil, creating a constant metamorphosis of light and shadow. At nightfall, this transformation is emulated by luminaria, creating a magical spectacle that captivates onlookers. The veil's constant transformation makes the Swarovskistrasse a bright boulevard of magical change, a place of poetic play and iridescent dalliance of colors.
Creating the Swarovski Veil was not without its challenges. The expansive size of the curtain exposed it to major stress from wind and ice, requiring the use of a ring mesh that met both static and visual requirements. The design team conducted comprehensive tests and used advanced CAD technology to create the sweeping steel support structure, taking into consideration loading conditions such as temperature, wind, and ice.
The Swarovski Veil is more than just a visual spectacle. It is a testament to the power of innovative design and technology in creating spaces that inspire and engage. The veil not only transforms the Swarovskistrasse into a magical boulevard but also cloaks the corporate grounds in a transparent veil that acts as a landmark. The design's minimalist geometrical arrangement defines the space, creating a seemingly metaphysical space where everything is intermingled.
The Swarovski Veil is a design masterpiece that has been recognized with a Platinum A' Lighting Products and Fixtures Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award recognizes world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative designs that showcase unmatched professionalism, genius, and contribute to societal wellbeing. The Swarovski Veil is indeed a defining aesthetic of an era, advancing the boundaries of art, science, design, and technology, and making the world a better place.
Project Designers: Dr. Regina Dahmen-Ingenhoven
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Holger Knauf, Swarovski veil by night, 2008
Image #2: Photographer Thomas Schüpping, Light illumination by night, 2008
Image #3: Photographer Thomas Schüpping, Light illumination by night, 2008
Image #4: Photographer Holger Knauf, Kederprofiles at the top, 2008
Image #5: Photographer Thomas Schüpping, Light illumination by night, 2008
Project Team Members: Projectmanagement: Baubüro Swarovski
Support structure: Werner Sobek Ingenieure GmbH
Landscape Architect: WKM Weber Klein Maas Landschaftsarchitekten
Lighting: FOUR TO ONE. scale design
Project Name: Heaven is a Place on Earth
Project Client: Dr. Regina Dahmen-Ingenhoven