Communication, transparency, adaptation; these are the key elements which jointly create the foundations of the latest archived project in the records of Bern-based Ipas Architects. Their exceptional planning ideas won them the first-place prize for constructing the 17,000 square-meters Group E headquarters near Fribourg, Switzerland. Intended as a collective workspace for its staff members, the imposing building was developed from the initial concept of a vast open area in which people could easily be in touch and exchange suggestions and opinions, inspiring one another to achieve excellent performance though still having a fun time at work.
The sharp edges and mirrored glass surfaces of the exterior walls are part of a contemporary design which enable the structure to blend in with the natural surroundings by reflecting its images, whilst creating a contrast with the urban engineering of clustered rural, country houses typically present in the area. As a result, the great volume of the construction is less apparent thanks to the network it is able to weave into the bordering landscape, making this a project that invests not only into human matters, but ecological ones as well.
To bring the two aspects together, the living spaces are arranged according to a precise scheme: relaxation areas are situated in the part of the building exposed to daylight, pedestrian walkways exist over, under and inside the edifice to enhance communication, all offices have a clear view of the deep green foliage of the outdoor vegetation. The final effect is of a complex but discrete living space, which both respects nature and draws from it an essential power and energy used to convey positivity into people’s work.
April 4, 2012
Shenkar
Scuola Politecnica di Design
Strate College
Central Saint Martins
LOFT 42
World Architecture Festival
