Bechtle AG, an international IT systems provider, was planning a new headquarters for its One Bechtle Cologne site. The project was subject to tight deadlines. The lease was due to expire, and there were a number of criteria to be met: good connections to the public transport network, sufficient parking spaces for staff, and a modern infrastructure for e-mobility. The aim was to create a modern working environment at the site that would facilitate flexible working arrangements. The clients commissioned Kreor Architekten + Ingenieure from Neckarsulm to tackle this complex task, with the entire project – including site analysis and design – being carried out in close consultation with the IT systems provider.

The very name of the building, “Flash on Mars”, suggests that this is a structure of exceptional architectural design, the interior of which was designed later that same year by Kreor Architects + Engineers in accordance with Bechtle AG’s specifications. The fully glazed façade and the spacious entrance area create a real wow factor. In this strikingly designed building, the ultra-modern working environment and the attractive, green outdoor area seem to merge seamlessly. The impression is one of spaciousness and an abundance of light. This was no small feat, given the need to accommodate a certain number of functional workstations within a limited space and to design the floor plan in such a way that it meets the needs of the staff, whilst also providing fully-fledged and flexibly usable training facilities and a separate catering area. “One challenge was to create a suitable working environment despite the curved layout and the necessary spacing required by employment law, whilst designing the acoustic measures in such a way that they do not detract from the building’s aesthetic appeal,” explains Kreor Managing Director Bernd Dollmann.

A particular design highlight is the double-stitched acoustic curtains, which are used as flexible room dividers. They give structure to the open-plan layout without making the space feel cramped, and, together with the high-quality carpet, ensure acoustic comfort. Sun protection is provided by blinds, complemented by sheer curtains in front of the high-quality windows. During the winter months, targeted accent lighting between the work groups and supplementary task lighting ensure optimal lighting conditions. Together with the finely coordinated interplay of colours and materials, they create a working atmosphere that is both harmonious and inspiring. Warm oak wood provides a contrast to the cool exposed concrete walls; fabrics with different weave structures and colours enhance the pleasant atmosphere. Despite time constraints, a working environment has been created that delights the client, the staff and the architects in equal measure. As the Cologne saying goes: “Et hätt noch immer jot jejange”.

www.kreor.de

Photography:
Rainer Retzlaff
www.rainerretzlaff.com

(Published in CUBE Cologne 01|26)