Project Description
Located in an open field landscape in rural Pennsylvania the Corporate Headquarters are approached from a circular driveway set in a pre-existing grid of hedgerows and surrounded by pear trees which shield the view of the parking lots. Behind the large curvature of the garden façade the research and manufacturing facility is laid out in parallel tracks of a one-story high shed with a 3-story office wing overlooking a large meadow and a rolling hillside beyond. A linear atrium stretching the length of the building is lit by tall clerestory windows bringing daylight to the interior and the office floors that are suspended by hanging columns.
The building is entered through a glazed portico which runs alongside the north face of the building. It joins all elements of the plan and leads to the administrative reception area at the head of the atrium.
The office wing departs from the strict geometry of the plan with an inflection at the north western corner where the form of the building swells out to accommodate a cafeteria at the ground level and conference rooms above. The large window openings of the south façade are shielded by the prominent copper roof overhang. The site is planned for future extension of the building towards the north.
Project Publications
Brick in Architecture, May 1997
Architecture, May 1995
L'Arca, March 1994
Interior Design, January 1994
Architecture, October 1993
