Germany · Facade & Exterior
Saarpolygon
- Architect
- Pfeiffer Sachse Architekten
- Completion year
- 2016
- Photography
- Tom Gundelwein; Jan Siefke
- Scope
- Artificial Lighting

The Saarpolygon is an icon for the profound change which the industrial region of the Saarland has experienced since the cessation of coal mining in 2012. The monument symbolizes the age-old tradition of Saarland coal mining in the Saarland and the related steel and energy industry.The walkable sculpture, made of steel, is perceived from afar as the tip of coal dump both day and night since at dark the sculpture is illuminated from inside. The construction and the material of the impressive structure represent a reminiscence of the industrial architecture.
The topic of change influenced the shape of the landmark. The perception changes depending on the point of view and of the time of the day and is strongly intensified by the lighting concept.
Awards & recognition
LIT Lighting Design Awards 2017
Winner · Energy Saving Lighting
Lighting Design Award
IES Illumination Awards 2017
International Merit
Lighting Design Award
DARC Awards 2017
Finalist · Best Exterior Lighting Scheme
Nomination / Shortlist
Photography: Tom Gundelwein; Jan Siefke
