Sophisticated

Reimagining a Historic Gunpowder Factory into a Modern Office

In the new office environment of the office and object outfitter LEIK GmbH in Rottweil, we find ourselves in a former gunpowder factory. Perhaps Commonconcept and LEIK, who collaborated on this project, believed that the explosive history of this 19th-century industrial monument would positively influence creativity and work. The colorful interior alone leaves little doubt.

The office space on the first floor of the five-story building spans 204 square meters, accommodating eight employees. Without altering the existing structure, the goal was to create a flexible workspace that fosters desired communication and facilitates interactions with employees, visitors, and clients. The space was also designed to adapt to the daily changing work demands. Additionally, expressing LEIK’s brand identity was a priority: a holistic approach to space – “from concept to execution and planned move-out.”

Preserving History While Embracing Modern Functionality

A functional connection to the existing structure is established primarily through optimal interaction within it: all elements defining and furnishing the workstations are freely positioned and thus reusable elsewhere. Curtains are used at various heights to modulate acoustics. A skillful composition of colors and materials creates differently experienced zones and differentiates the approach to the existing structure: the old is preserved and atmospherically utilized, while the stylistic contrast introduced by the new dynamizes the workspace and enables the presentation of options in client interactions.

The floor plan now includes, among other things, a team high table, a work cloud with individual desks, boxes, a mobile lounge, copy station, phone booth, dialogue desk, social kitchen, and a bar. The new users are also pleased to have effectively saved the historic building from decay. The interior walls were preserved in their original form and received an exterior thermal envelope, while the floor now features underfloor heating.

What can architecture do for a good workplace?

Charlotte Scheben: Architecture—especially interior architecture—can significantly contribute to well-being in the workplace. An engaging spatial concept invites users to discover and experience their workspace from new perspectives. It offers a variety of work options and informal meeting points, enhancing productivity and well-being while fostering social connections and a sense of belonging among colleagues. A well-planned spatial concept motivates through optimal space utilization and aesthetics, simultaneously increasing identification with the workplace.

To what extent should workspace design cater to individual needs?

Individuality plays a crucial role in the sense that the design concept must be tailored to the specific client, their work processes, and values. However, when breaking down individuality to the spatial concept, we would rather speak of flexibility. The space must be able to respond to different work styles, tasks, and personalities, offering a variety of work options that can be used as needed.

What materials do you recommend to your clients in architecture or interior design?

Natural, sustainable materials that promote a healthy indoor climate. Clay, for example, remains an underrated material for interiors that significantly enhances well-being.