A storage and logistics unit and their respective offices. It is an activity mainly tertiary character. The building with contemporary architectural lines where the link with the so-called industrial buildings is felt through the use of shaped and translucent polycarbonate sheets. The full and smooth color forms the link with the environment, primarily in its natural state. Applied in the concept of this building is, the massive use of natural light, the use of rain water, among other concepts of effective management of resources and sustainability.
Design Concepts – First Steps
- As a starting point we had three important factors: The client’s definition brief for a large unit of warehousing, the municipal regulation and the finally, the relief and surrounding landscape.
- Concerning these 3 factors, the footprint was set on the south part of the plot.
- The building should express, among other things, an idea related to the company’s activity. The practice then studied two possibilities, The House/Envelope concept and the Package/Smooth shape concept. This second concept gave the best results when sketched.
- The green color present in the company logo was then used in the metal lining. Associated with the smooth shape of the building, made it’s integration easier with the natural landscape on the east side.
- The south part of the plot, was undoubtedly the best place to locate the offices volume of the building (with less height), making easier the connection with the residential buildings in this area, giving the best access for trucks, and working vehicles.
- However the building should give it’s best appearance when approached descending from the north side. To resolve this aspect, a big frame and window made of polycarbonate, was designed for this facade, integrating the company’s logo, with two lightning possibilities during the day and night. This polycarbonate facade should have an important role on the natural lighting of the warehouse, with no associated thermal problems, as it is the north side.