Microstructural analysis of the render of the Bolinder palace in Stockholm

摘要

The residence of Jean Bolinder (1813-1899) at Blasieholmen in Stockholm was built in the years 1874-1877. The construction proprietor, Bolinder, was a mechanical engineer and was the owner of machine shops and foundries. He was also interested in the latest techniques and methods of building construction. He had widespread contacts all over Europe with prominent people in industry. For the design of his residence, Bolinder engaged perhaps the most outstanding architect in Sweden at that time, Helgo Zettervall. Zettervall was also interested in advanced technology including the use of iron and brick walls for framework. The masonry for the brick walls was made with cement mortar, which was unusual for that period. The practice became widespread decades later. Almost the entire facade is made of cement-rich renders made on site or fabricated from pre-cast artificial stones. A few busts are the only gypsum ornaments. Advanced shapes of ornamentation, decorative headings, column heads and skirt-boards were made of strong render or precast in very strong mortar/concrete, which in those days was called artificial stone. Columns and pilasters were made on-site from strong lime/cement render. The smoothing sub-coat was made of weaker lime/cement mortar. Either natural stone or artificial stone or strong mortar with high cement content was put on top. The entire methodology of construction is completely opposite to today's recommendations of render system composition. However, this rendering has lasted for more than 100 years, and it would probably have lasted longer, if general maintenance had been practiced. Unfortunately, gutters and down-pipes, in particular, were inadequately repaired.