wulf architekten: Corporate Center GFT AG - best architects 17

wulf architekten

Corporate Center GFT AG

best architects 17

office/administrative buildings

Place

Stuttgart / Germany

Photos

Markus Guhl

Description

The new Corporate Center of GFT AG, located on the southern outskirts of Stuttgart, is set in an urban context dominated by anonymous buildings from the 1970s and 1980s. A wide median strip occupied by a subway line and parking spaces divides Schelmenwasenstraße and hinders communication and urbanity in this setting. The architects responded to this situation by erecting an autonomous single-storey volume next to the existing GFT building, functionally extending the 1980s complex. The new building was deliberately positioned to define an introverted outdoor area to the rear, facing west. A large circle was cut out of the roof here to frame a space that lends itself to versatile uses. In front, the extension connects the building to the street, where a ramp defines a prominent new main entrance. The offices on the upper floors of the old building were refurbished simply: transparency and bright, friendly materials lend the old premises a fresh new atmosphere. A special feature is the first floor, which was designed for the young company segment CODE N with simple cardboard partition walls, developed by an artist. The Corporate Center now stands out from its rather bland environment through its sleek, clean lines. Ensuring smooth transitions between the rooms are incisions in the walls to let daylight in, creating an overall space with an inviting and pleasant ambience.