The Architectural Brief was to design and construct a new Parts Distribution Centre consisting of a 16 000m² warehouse facility with a modern support office of approximately 1000m², which suitably represents the MAN Truck & Bus corporate identity. Provision was to be made for a potential 9 000m² expansion capability to the warehouse facility, should this become a future requirement. The design solution for the P.D.C. sought to achieve a clean, contemporary architectural aesthetic, taking cognisance of the corporate identity of MAN through the utilisation of suitable, modern building technologies and locally appropriate construction materials and methodologies. Positioning & orientation of the buildings on the site was carefully considered to optimise energy efficiency, while still providing natural sunlight penetration, where desirable. Through the introduction of a “floating box” within the façade, the office space has an individual identity set within the building envelope, which maintains a harmonious relationship with the greater building aesthetic. The split level office design solution achieves the required physical and visual linkages between the operations centre and warehouse, as well as addressing the requirement for the ability to secure the two office components individually. Construction challenges during this project related primarily to the tight time frames for construction aligning with the MAN Truck & Bus mother company requirement to be operational, coinciding with their international facility roll-out.
View Original