Precise Horizontality

Intensive planning

The new administration and laboratory building that the company Peter Lacke was able to put into operation in Hiddenhausen in 2020 is one of the most important among the numerous internationally located sites and therefore received intensive planning attention.

The company, which manufactures paint systems for industry, had to decide on a new building because it had reached the limits of its capacity in the laboratories, application technology and administration in Hiddenhausen in eastern Westphalia.
This building project was not only about dealing with current and future space issues, but also about defining a new external image, especially because the company’s premises border directly on the busy main road, which creates both an obligation and an opportunity for aesthetically sophisticated architecture. The pictures of the completed building with their elegant anthracite-coloured horizontality confirm how appealingly this was achieved.

Inside and outside

Different functions were to be located that required specific spaces. The design developed two structures that are discreetly connected by two bridge wings: a four-storey building for the administration and a two-storey laboratory building – both accessed from different entrances. Since the building is on a slope, only the eastern part of the ground floor is above ground. The move-in creates a covered outdoor space whose water basin enhances the view between the design laboratory and the staff canteen.

Collaborative working possible

In the administration wing, 200 workplaces were organised on approx. 2,400 square metres on three floors, with open office landscapes dominating. Each floor has desk-sharing spaces, kitchenettes and lounge areas, so that interactive and collaborative work is not only facilitated but also implemented intuitively. In addition, centrally located enclosed meeting rooms allow for screened discussions and meetings in groups.

Additions

The workplaces in the laboratory building are supplied with natural light via a centrally located atrium. The spray booths, which are indispensable for the development of the company’s product range, found their place at the back, with the associated technology being given its own storey above.

What do you consider to be the main qualities of a good workplace?

Andreas Wannenmacher: The workplace no longer exists today. Work is in a constant process of change and the demands placed on it are highly diverse. Individual, independent and concentrated work alternates with interactive teamwork. Modern working environments must make all this possible in order to increase productivity and generate the highest level of motivation.

Do you see any comparability between interior design for living and for working?

Absolutely. Even if the ergonomic requirements of a workplace have specific characteristics, the point is to create spaces for living and working in which people feel comfortable and enjoy spending time. Colours, materials and lighting conditions should help to create a beautiful ambience, appeal to the senses and ensure a high quality of stay.

Which functional aspects are decisive for you in the future development of workspaces?

Flexibility is one of the important requirements for workspaces. Since the demands on work are constantly changing, the spaces in which work is done must do the same. For this, appropriate structural conditions must be created that make it possible to change the rooms easily and quickly and to adapt to changing requirements.