Clear view: glass panels in Neufelderkoog

Coastal regions are among the best places to spend our time. It is precisely in such places, however, that the unavoidable flood defences restrict our view of the sea. But the measures employed at Neufelderkoog on the North Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein show that doesn‘t have to be the case.

Here, a flood protection barrier including glass elements protects the inhabitants and visitors from storm tides. The glass breaks up the appearance of the approximately 800 meters long flood defence wall and also retains the unobstructed view of the sea at these points. For those buildings situated directly behind the flood defence wall, the glass panels ensure adequate daylight and a good view out through the windows. And for the “Op‘n Dieck” restaurant, the glass panels are a welcome barrier around the outdoor terrace.

Coastal areas popular with tourists need flood protection measures that not only offer security but also take into account the demands of the local economy and the wellbeing of the local residents.

The flood-prone region of Neufelderkoog is a wonderful area that attracts many visitors because of the beautiful views of the dyke landscape. With a conventional flood protection solution made from masonry or concrete, this panorama would be lost. But the situation is different when glass is employed.

Using glass in measures to protect against storm tides is treading new ground. Technical standards had to be drawn up first. Also extensive trials were necessary in order to guarantee the necessary safety, even under the most extreme storm tide conditions.

The basic structure for the flood defence barrier in Neufelderkoog is a reinforced concrete wall founded on sheet piles and clad in brickwork. This forms a stable anchorage for the steel frames that hold the 68 millimeters thick panes of laminated safety glass without restraint. Each individual pane of glass measures 100 x 120 centimeters and weighs about 160 kilograms. They were specially designed and manufactured for this project.

These stable panes of laminated safety glass offer the best possible protection against storm tides. In addition, they screen off wind and noise and also provide a safety barrier. The dimensions of the panes were chosen so that they can withstand the loads, but at the same time the glass has a high aesthetic quality. Visitors can therefore still enjoy the picturesque view of the dyke scenery.