Corten as art: Terra Nova project on Platonova, 20B
Terra Nova's artisans have completed a major art project. A decorative panel made of weather-resistant steel (Corten) has been installed on the façade of the building at 20B Platonova Street—a large-scale work that combines architecture, technology, and art.
This project was the result of months of preparation and complex technical implementation. The panel is large and manufactured using high-precision laser cutting, requiring pinpoint precision at every stage—from 3D modeling to final installation. The material's unique characteristics—its weight, oxidation properties, and unique behavior in the environment—presented a real challenge even for an experienced team.
What is Corten?
Corten is a special type of steel that develops an oxide patina over time. Visually, this resembles rust, but in reality, it's a durable and protective layer, resistant to moisture and weathering. This allows the panel to naturally evolve over the months, acquiring deeper, richer shades from ochre to amber-terracotta. It's a living metal, changing with time and light.
Artistic concept
The panel's ornamentation, designed by Terra Nova art director Anna Redko, echoes her previous designs on the building's façade, which explored ideas in quantum physics, the penetration of sound into space, string theory, wave-particle duality, metaphysical ideas, and the interactions of bodies with them. Mythical figures—the guardians of the forest, sky, and earth—are added to the Corten design. Light passes freely through the delicately carved pattern, creating a dynamic interplay of shadows on the building's façade.
Technical features of implementation
Material: weather-resistant steel (corten) with a sheet thickness of 1.5 mm
Area: 156 sq.m
Installation: hidden mounting system
Design and installation: 2 months of 3D modeling and approvals
Structure weight: over 5000 kg
Address: 223027, Republic of Belarus, Minsk region, Minsk district, Kolodishchansky village council, 153, Yukhnovka village area