The coating on Phozinc (zinc phosphate) finishes is formed by a natural chemical reaction, resulting in characteristically irregular patterns and shading. In exterior settings, this natural appearance blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, while in interior settings it is easily combined with diverse other materials while also working as a highlight that brings cohesion to interior spaces.

Let us introduce a project which made extensive use of Phozinc: the JR Yokohama Tower, completed in 2020. Phozinc and aluminium panels feature in the atrium, the lower commercial zone, and the office zone. These Phozinc panels were made from 2.3mm-thick steel that has been hot-dipped galvanized (immersed in a bath of molten zinc to form a layer of zinc) then phosphated (immersed in a solution to create a layer of microscopic phosphate crystals) to form a strong coating.

The octagonal panels used in the covered carriage way of the office zone impart a sense of grandeur and harmonise well with the warmth of the brick-style wall tiles. Eight Phozinc panels, each around W640mm x H3400mm, are used for each octagonal column. Despite it being difficult to control the shading and patterning of Phozinc when used with longer pieces, our expertise enabled us to rise to the challenge. The skirting board has been fabricated to fit with the gently sloping floor and is also finished in Phozinc.

The atrium, which is open up to the fifth floor, features Phozinc column panels. None of these Phozinc panels have identical patterns and tones, meaning they match well with the irregular texture of both the wood ceiling louvers and the wood grain-effect flooring, to further enhance the natural feel of the space.

KIKUKAWA’s Phozinc finish is available in three shades: light, medium, and dark. For the JR Yokohama Tower project, different shades were used for different features. The darkest shade was chosen for the atrium column panels mentioned above, to give emphasis to the space, while the column panels for the commercial zone are in the lightest shade to create a bright and breezy atmosphere. The appeal of this finish remains the same whatever the shade: a natural texture and superlative quality that simply cannot be achieved with paint.

Finally, let us show you the column and wall panels in the atrium at the entrance to the office zone, which have also been treated with Phozinc.  Here, the matte effect of the coating brings a sense of tranquility and sophistication to the space. They work in seamless harmony with the white and silver of the aluminium panels, while the dark shade gives an accent to the space. Notice the column in the left foreground of the image below: at the corner joints, the panels have been bent to fit, giving the impression of greater depth and weight in comparison to cut panels.

In this project, we used steel treated with Phozinc, but similar finishes are available when using the lighter base material of aluminium, such as a special paint designed to resemble Phozinc finish. If you are considering using Phozinc or other special finishes, please consult with us here at KIKUKAWA.