Graz Central Station
Durability as a principle of sustainability
The exterior cladding of Graz Central Station, installed back in 2013, is an impressive example of long-lasting architecture. More than twelve years after its completion, the facade panels continue to impress with their quality, technical performance, and appearance, despite heavy use at this busy transport hub. Simple cleaning is enough to maintain the excellent condition of the Rieder elements.
Innovative cleaning process
In summer 2025, Viarius GmbH carried out the technically demanding special cleaning of the local transport turntable. In addition to the Rieder ceiling and wall claddings, floors and escalators were also cleaned. Conventional cleaning methods proved insufficient, so the company developed an innovative cleaning technology: through a novel combination of steam and a specially designed vertical surface cleaner, 650 m² of surfaces were cleaned efficiently and gently within just a few days. At a temperature of around 165 °C and very low pressure, even the most stubborn deposits were removed. Crucially, the steam only contacts the surface for a very short time, preventing any thermal damage.
Sustainable materials for a resource-conscious future
In times of resource scarcity, climate change and increasing energy-efficiency requirements, durable and low-maintenance materials are becoming ever more important. Rieder’s glassfibre reinforced concrete meets these demands perfectly: weather- and fire-resistant, only 13 mm thick, flexible and requiring minimal maintenance. At the same time, the material offers significant design freedom: various colours, textures and shapes allow for individual architectural expression without compromising functionality.
This project demonstrates that sustainability is not only about ecological footprints but primarily about the longevity and lasting quality of materials. What endures today will not need renovation tomorrow, saving energy, resources and costs. Graz Central Station is thus a prime example of sustainable, long-lasting architecture, where innovative material technologies and intelligent maintenance solutions go hand in hand.
