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Architects: Hastings Architecture Associates
- Area: 225000 m²
- Year: 2009
Text description provided by the architects. As Franke continually seeks and delivers innovations in both technology and services, it was the design team’s commitment to reflect their vision, product line and unique European lineage with innovative design solutions. This was achieved through the use of simple forms and lines throughout the building, a strict module and rhythm, and the use of durable materials to reflect Franke’s dedication to an uncompromising quality.
On the exterior of the building, an insulated aluminum panel system was employed, adhering to this strict module and rhythm. This is further reflected, not only in the building’s curtain wall glazing system, but also the wood volumes which are used as building punctuation and warming elements. A large expanse of corrugated metal was utilized at the office building to create an organizational spine and serve as a mechanical screen.
This organizing element expresses a hierarchy of spaces as they relate to the time line of manufacture, from Product Development at the front of the building, through Product Testing at the building’s midpoint and terminating with distribution at the Distribution Center.
Tilt-up concrete was used in the Tech Center for cost savings strategies and as a means to relate the Office and Distribution masses since the entire Distribution Centeris tilt-up concrete. The design team worked together with Franke to include several owner provided products and materials, such as stainless steel panels for wall protection in their Tech Center and coffee makers, espresso makers and kitchen equipment in their employee café.
