The enclosure forms a robust, transparent, and visually striking facade system; the natural patina of the Corten steel evolves over time, lending the structure a dynamic, living surface.
"Mannheim" mesh model – technical specifications
The "Mannheim" expanded metal model used here features a robust, longitudinally oriented mesh format with a clear grid pattern and balanced transparency. Technical data for the Mannheim mesh:

Mesh length: 115 mm
Mesh width: 48 mm
Strand width: 20.0 mm
Material thickness: 2.0 mm
"A" dimension (overall thickness): approx. 20 mm
Area weight: 13.3 kg/m²

The "A" dimension of approximately 20 mm gives the mesh tangible spatial depth, creating a more sculptural effect on the facade surface. The combination of strand width, material thickness, and overall thickness ensures high mechanical stability and a calm, technically precise appearance—ideal for large-scale facades and infrastructure projects such as railway crossings.

Facade concept and execution
The expanded metal panels were folded at the corners to create defined edges without the need for additional trim profiles. At the stairways, the cladding is angled, allowing the facade envelope to visually mirror the users' direction of movement and emphasize the dynamic flow of the pathways. The doors were also clad in the same expanded metal, ensuring the grid pattern remains uninterrupted and the entire enclosure is perceived as a cohesive system. The combination of the linear grid pattern of the "Mannheim" mesh and the precisely executed folded edges creates a clean, technical aesthetic that blends harmoniously into the infrastructure environment.

Materiality and patina of Corten steel
Through controlled oxidation, Corten steel forms a self-protecting patina that permanently shields the material from further corrosion. The resulting color variations and nuances are an intentional part of the design concept:

they accentuate the mesh structure of the "Mannheim" model
they lend the surface a dynamic, evolving texture
they reduce maintenance requirements, as no coatings or repainting are necessary
Over the years, the patina transforms the structure into a dynamic element that responds to its specific location.

Workshop Fabrication and Precision Detailing
The surrounding frame and the mounting cutouts were fabricated entirely in-house. This prefabrication enabled:

precise folding/bending
exact cuts for angled panels
clean transitions at the folded corners
removable expanded metal panels for easy maintenance

The deliberately visible joints highlight the precision of the craftsmanship and give the structure a clear, honest aesthetic.

Advantages and Environmental Compatibility
Corten steel offers several functional and ecological benefits:

Long service life thanks to its self-protecting patina
Low maintenance, as no coatings are required
High recyclability – steel can be almost entirely recycled
Reduced environmental impact during operation, as no paints or coating chemicals are used
Resource efficiency through durable components and ease of repair

The environmental footprint improves over the structure's lifespan, as the elimination of coating cycles and the material's recyclability offset the energy-intensive manufacturing process.

Conclusion
The "Mannheim" model expanded metal facade cladding in Corten steel plays a defining role in the pedestrian crossing over the railway tracks in Trier. Angled panels, folded corners, continuous door cladding, and precise detailing create a robust, durable, and architecturally distinctive envelope. The Corten steel patina gives the structure a dynamic, evolving surface while contributing to a sustainable, low-maintenance infrastructure.