Flowcrete has developed a flooring solution for the new National Aquarium Denmark, Den Blå Planet (The Blue Planet), which reflects light to create a captivating underwater illusion.
The building, by Danish architects 3XN, flows in the shape of a giant whirlpool with organically curving walls, innovatively integrated water features and shimmering floors - designed to make visitors feel immersed in a marine environment.
A key part of this illusion is the swirling, watery lights cast onto the floor of the aquariums viewing areas.
To create the desired finish 6,600m² of Flowcrete Group flooring solutions were installed throughout the aquarium. 5,000m² of the highly resistant, epoxy resin coating Flowcoat TL was used in the public areas and technical rooms of the building and 1,200m² of Flowseal EPW was installed in the stairwells to ensure an easy to maintain, dust free environment. 200m² of the sealer Peran WW was also installed along the walls of the aquarium to provide a hygienic yet simultaneously attractive, gloss finish.
Jukka Kaikkonen, Managing Director for Flowcrete Sweden, said: ''A project like this entails some difficult challenges. For example the building needs to withstand 600 tons of pressure created by a massive ocean aquarium and also include a 16 metre glass tunnel!
It also required a smooth and durable flooring system that would match the appearance of the building whilst providing vital functionality. Flowcrete solutions are the ideal choice in this situation thanks to their ability to combine a decorative coating with hard-wearing credentials.''