As a non-hierarchical, uniformed, infinite and flexible space FRABA Sp.z o.o. is a metageneric production plant. FRABA Sp. z o.o. is a manufacturing facility prototype for
an automation components company. The first production plant in Slubice, Poland
was completed in November 2006. On a tight gross budget of 580€/m2 a model for
future expansions around the globe is developed. The design reacts to location
specific construction and logistic conditions for each site. In Poland there is
a sufficient supply of timber at considerable low costs compared to a
conventional steel structure. The global steel market overheated by Chinese
demands, combined with the affordable labour cost in Poland, make a lightweight
timber structure become reasonable. The structural system consists of a 52m
diameter 60°solid web beam grid. It rests on 19 17cm diameter stressed steel
tube columns with a clear span of 9,70m. The shell is made of prefabricated
insulated plywood elements, 14% of the roof is covered with triangular skylight
domes. The top surface is aluminium coated bituminous roofing membrane. Gross
floor area is 2069 m2 with an overall clearance of 4,5m. The building has
mechanical and conditioned ventilation, Skylights are specifically designed for
perfect daylight assembly conditions and avoid heat gains during the summer.The circle is an optimized box. In comparison to a rectangular building
of the same size it has less surface and less volume. Additionally to energetic
savings it allows to save up to 13 % in construction material. The triangular
grid minimizes the construction material while offering a maximum of possible
layout variations. The dimension of the triangular grid is adapted to the needs
of the company. In terms of layout the triangular grid offers much more
flexibility than the orthogonal one. It is optimised for the customer’s
production process as well as for possible future uses.