A simple cube built from prefabricated, locally sourced concrete elements, Roche Multifunctional Workspace by Christ & Gantenbein demonstrates how the company culture has transitioned from functional industrial space to a human-centred workplace that places interaction and teamwork within a rational and industrial framework.
Located on a campus site in Genzach-Whylen, Germany, the new building responds to its context and its interstitial spaces with a series of plazas and a highly rational architectural vocabulary. Evoking an ‘industrial palazzo’ the façade comprises horizontal bands of aluminium panels, mullions, and ribbon windows that permit multiple visual connections.
Accommodating 1400 employees of Roche, the idea of the project is that of a simple, non-hierarchical space for employees to both meet and work. The concept of open-plan design encourages free flow movement through column-free spaces enhanced with natural light and vistas. In reference to the industrial language, prefabricated, pre-stressed coffered-ceiling elements are able to span the near entirety of the building footprint.
The building is arranged as a publicly accessibly entry hall on the ground level that subsequently opens onto a double-storey atrium on the first and second floors. Two storeys of flexible spaces above this accommodate a ‘work to meeting’ culture and open ways of communication and collaboration.
Angular staircases positioned within the floorplate reveal intriguing views of the surrounding rolling landscape, with the city of Basel visible at a distance.
Programmatic elements include a customizable 550 seat auditorium that can be partitioned into three individual halls, as well as individual workspaces, adjustable decks, and enclosed zones for privacy mixed with conference rooms.
