The new Bonfiglioli Headquarters is located in Calderara di Reno on the outskirts of Bologna, Italy. Designed by Milan-based Peter Pichler Architecture (PPA), the building demonstrates the potential of sustainable design in an industrial setting. The headquarters embodies Bonfiglioli’s history and manufacturing prowess, evident in the innovative use of a custom continuous pleated aluminium mesh skin.
Established in 1956, Bonfiglioli is a global Italian company that manufactures and supplies a wide range of products, including gearmotors, drive systems, planetary gearboxes, and inverters. The new HQ completes Bonfiglioli’s EVO project, a state-of-the-art facility that aligns with the company’s approach to sustainability, employee well-being, and technological advancement. This immense 150,000-square-metre project includes a production plant, research and development centre, museum, and exhibition space.
A design that works with its surroundings
PPA’s objective for the new Bonfiglioli HQ was to create an open building that connects people while simultaneously adopting a radical approach to sustainability with an intelligent geometry. The completed HQ stands out as a recognisable landmark, rising above and seamlessly integrating into its surroundings.
The design of the 6,200-square-metre HQ integrates the courtyard typology of the existing EVO masterplan buildings into the massing. This courtyard, featuring a ground-floor green garden, creates natural ventilation through a chimney effect.
In response to local sunlight conditions, the building’s roof has been tilted, enlarging the two north-facing facades and maximising the amount of workspace with indirect natural light. In turn, this reduces the size of the two south-facing facades, minimising heat gain, and improving indoor comfort. This also saves energy.
A custom continuous pleated aluminium mesh
The south-facing facades and roof of the headquarters are clad in a second skin made from a custom continuous pleated aluminium mesh. This unique feature filters intense light, creating a comfortable indoor working environment. The design optimises natural light conditions while simultaneously reducing the need for excessive artificial lighting. The facade is an architectural project in itself, designed from the perspective of the building’s orientation. The mesh filters light on the building’s south-facing sides, while the transparent north-facing facades maximise light.
The pleated aluminium mesh skin symbolises Bonfiglioli’s industrial prowess. The pleated facade geometry is inspired by the company’s gearmotors, while the aluminium mesh evokes the shavings that are a daily byproduct of its supply chain. The primary design goal for PPA was to create an efficient and functional office building that embodies the identity and cultural values of Bonfiglioli.
A blend of architectural intent and design
The building’s structural concept is a harmonious blend of architectural intent and design. This is particularly obvious in its exoskeleton, a key structural component that strongly defines the architectural concept.
The steel exoskeleton allows for greater flexibility within the interior spaces, as the facade bears the structure’s weight. The exoskeleton angles outwards at ground level, rising vertically and transitioning into the roof, thus distributing the building’s mass. By pushing the boundaries of contemporary steelwork, the exoskeleton structure ensures future flexibility with open, column-free interior spaces.
A clever workspace design
Interior spaces benefit greatly from the exoskeleton design. Interiors are clean and uncluttered, with layouts that foster connectivity and collaboration. Two sculptural spiral staircases are crafted from steel and wood. A bridge on the third floor spans the internal courtyard, connecting departments and further facilitating movement, workflow, and communication.
The overall design emphasises the health and well-being of the building's users. Green spaces are integrated throughout, and indirect natural light improves the working environment. The sloped roof of the building incorporates six south-facing terraces, each with a unique depth and position that enhances the building’s outward appearance. The terraces offer outdoor spaces that provide opportunities to pause, take a break, or have informal meetings. These terraces enhance the overall quality of the office spaces by providing sweeping views of the city of Bologna. The pleated aluminium mesh surrounding the terraces adds to their character.
