How can the headquarters of a leading reinforced concrete company be designed in such a way that functionality and materiality are combined with the company's identity? This was the question facing architect Adina Zimmermann when she was given the task for just such a project. After the building had been extended, the newly created rooftop space was open and glazed. To ensure clear structures and intuitively usable areas, the architect designed a central cupboard element rotated by 45 degrees, which zones the room, creates generous storage space and at the same time enables natural routing. This piece of furniture, which can be operated from both sides, not only connects the different areas of use. It also opens up the space to the roof terrace and creates a transition to a future new building. A central design element of the design is the folding sliding systems, which are both room dividers and design objects. "In the managing director's office, I integrated a spiral-shaped folding sliding system that creates a special moment: when this curtain wall is opened, two sculptural golden whisky fridges are revealed - staged with warm, indirect lighting," says Adina Zimmermann, describing a highlight of the design. The materials were chosen to reflect the company's identity in every detail. The floor, for example, is tiled with a pebble structure reminiscent of polished concrete, while the central cabinet element is clad with raw welded reinforced concrete construction mats. Contrasts come into play to create a warm, pleasant atmosphere for the employees: High-pile carpets and folding sliding systems in a sophisticated forest green, covered in velvet, provide a homely elegance that offsets the industrial hardness of the materials. This interplay between rough and soft elements not only conveys the company's philosophy, but also makes the rooms an inspiring place to work. Overall, office spaces have been created that tell stories and arouse emotions beyond their functionality. An example of how architecture can be used to express identity.

www.adina-architektur.de

Photos:
BKfotofilm
www.bkfotofilm.de

(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 01|25)