Architéma Architectuurstudio has designed a distinct new building for MAN Trucks on a prominent location in Schelluinen, the Netherlands. A large protruding canopy, supported by a single column, acts as a display to showcase trucks to passing traffic.
An absent landmark
This prominent design feature arose from an original interpretation of requirements made by the municipality. For this specific site they demanded a so-called ‘landmark’ building as to create a conspicuous identity for the surrounding area. With this in mind, Architéma set out to design a simple landmark, which would also have some practical use for the end-user.
The result is effectively a blank spot, an ‘empty’ setting to attract attention for the merchandise: trucks on sale. An extra feature becomes apparent in the night-time. The outer skin of the central column consists of circular expanded aluminium panels. LED-spots inside the column illuminate the setting to create a spectacular, ever changing light sculpture.
Minimalistic opposites
The landmark is not a standalone feature, it is part of a larger minimalistic composition of elements. The canopy and stage act as connecting horizontal lines between the landmark display and two consecutive abstract building parts: a completely transparent volume which houses offices and a completely closed, tiled volume which houses part of the workshop.
The high level of transparency of the glass office block expresses the corporate attitude of MAN Trucks, in which openness and communication are central themes. In addition, the abundance of glass creates a strong correlation between interior and exterior, that works both ways: passing traffic can catch a glimpse of the buildings interior activities while employees can experience a clear connection of their workplace with their surroundings.
The theme of transparency has also been a key design theme for the workshop. Fully glazed overhead-doors shed light in a garage designed to be as functional, empty and sober as possible. The partitions between garage and offices consist largely of glass walls, to maximize the experience of the company’s core business: maintaining and repairing trucks.
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