In today's fast-moving digital landscape, success demands speed: marketing campaigns must move from concept to execution without hesitation. Long lead times for studio rentals, photographer bookings, and equipment sourcing can derail workflow and momentum. Henkel recognized this challenge and established its first dedicated photo and video studio at its Reisholz headquarters. The Düsseldorf-based architecture firm RKW Architektur+, in collaboration with interior design specialists D'art Design from Neuss, transformed a former warehouse on Niederheider Straße into a state-of-the-art creative facility.

The building's exterior required minimal intervention—only a striking new façade announces the warehouse's new purpose. Inside, the design strategy embraced the existing structure, translating it into a cohesive industrial aesthetic. Black-grey steel, exposed brick, light grey polished concrete, and whitewashed textured walls work in concert with oversized industrial-style windows set into the concrete frame, reinforcing the space's raw, authentic character. The open three-story main hall houses the photo studio, complete with an infinity wall for seamless shoots, plus supporting spaces for storage, makeup, and facilities—all anchored by a generous crew lounge. Additional functions occupy the flanking floors. Significant investment went into building systems and infrastructure, anticipating future use for smaller events and activations. The primary technical challenge stemmed from fixed ceiling heights inherent to the existing structure. Modern solutions—solar shading, glare control, radiant floor heating, and advanced ventilation—bring the building to contemporary technical standards.

After six months of planning and permitting, construction wrapped in another six months. The studio's mettle was tested immediately upon opening: when the satirical website Der Postillon mocked the endless parade of shampoo variants and called for a product that simply "cleans your damn hair," Henkel's team responded with remarkable speed. Within a single day, Schwarzkopf launched a limited edition boldly named "Shampoo without the Frills"—proof that the new studio could deliver agility when it mattered most.

www.d-art-design.de
www.rkw.plus

Photography Credits:

Thomas Knieps
www.thomasknieps.com

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 04|21)