Over the past decade, Outletcity Metzingen has grown exponentially, establishing itself as a pioneer in omnichannel retail. Nearly 400 professionals collaborate daily to transform shopping into an unforgettable experience for over 4.5 million visitors worldwide—whether browsing online, on mobile, or in-store. When Holy AG and its subsidiary Outletcity GmbH recently merged to form Outletcity AG, the company faced a significant challenge: uniting staff scattered across multiple buildings into a single, cohesive workspace.

"One Roof" unfolds across three buildings—from the historic weaving mill with its distinctive sawtooth roof to a modern shell structure—spanning two levels and approximately 4,200 m². The design challenge was clear: seamlessly connect these disparate buildings and levels while establishing an intuitive spatial flow. The interior architects at blocher partners created a refined, deliberately contrasting design framework built on open-office principles. Within this framework, fourteen departments—each with distinct functions—are strategically positioned to encourage short communication paths and genuine collaboration. Every zone has been tailored to its specific workflow and needs: focused work stations sit alongside meeting rooms, with thoughtfully designed table arrangements supporting different work modes. While each department tackles vastly different tasks, every team operates as part of a unified whole. Here, both software and hardware specialists collaborate constantly, reinventing the outlet experience to deliver customers something truly exceptional. Cross-departmental touchpoints—from kitchenettes to informal gathering spaces—serve as connective threads throughout the space. An arcade corridor elegantly links the two levels, creating an intuitive visual and spatial connection.

Colors and materials honor the building's industrial past: the existing structure's dark palette—metal, wood, and chrome—creates a dynamic tension with warm, contemporary materials like oak, featured in shelving, tables, and seating elements. Exposed concrete and raw screed dialogue with refined carpets, furnishings, and greenery, creating a compelling interplay of texture and tactile warmth.

www.outletcity.com
www.blocherpartners.com

Photos:
blocher partners
Joachim Grothus
www.joachimgrothus.de

(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 02|24)