Climbing chimney

Flemish factory chimneys that are being restored usually end up as a mobile phone mast or a nesting place for birds of prey, but for the Schotte chimney a different purpose was found: a climbing chimney. It is unique to Flanders. An impressive steel structure in black lacquered steel was erected around the chimney. Staco was commissioned by Hancke Metaalwerken to supply the gratings and steps. In order to visually embellish the concept, the walls were equipped with 210m² type RK 30-3 lengthways full gratings mesh 33x33. A unique concept that turned an old chimney into a symbol of the symbiosis between sport and heritage.

Flemish factory chimneys that are being restored usually end up as a mobile phone mast or a nesting place for birds of prey, but for the Schotte chimney, which dates back to 1870, a different purpose was found: a climbing chimney. It is unique to Flanders. In this way, the city of Aalst wants to link heritage and sport to each other.

The well-known factory chimney was transformed into an impressive 16-metre-high climbing course.  A four-metre high platform measuring 19 by 12 metres was attached to the chimney; this is where the climbing starts. Staco was commissioned by Hancke Metaalwerken to supply the gratings and steps for the furbishing of the actual steel structure in black-lacquered steel.  

The choice was made to work with lengthways full gratings for the wall covering of the structure. About 210m² of the type RK 30-3 mesh 33x33 in black lacquered steel was used to cover the access to the climbing platform. 
The stair structure, on the other hand, which connects the ground floor with the platform, has been fitted with hot-dip galvanised steps of the TR 30-3 mesh 33x33 type.  

Where old factory chimneys remind us of pollution, the metamorphosis of this restoration project can now serve as a symbol of the symbiosis between sport and heritage. 

Staco products used

Staco pressed gratings type RK   
Staco pressed gratings type TR 

Technical information

Staco pressed gratings type RK 3-30, mesh size 33,33x33,33 mm, hot dip galvanized and powdercoated in black
Staco stair treads type TR 3-30, mesh size 33,33x33,33 mm, hot dip galvanized         

Location

Aalst, BE

Application

Floors
Staircases
Fencing and partitioning

Used in sectors

Public
Commercial