Atelier tao+c's innovative approach in transforming a 1960s textile warehouse into a showroom for ZIIN is a compelling exercise in architectural ingenuity and material storytelling.
The core of the design features two interlaced frameworks, one transparent and the other solid, creating a crystal-like structure that plays with light and space. The transparent house, clad with corrugated polycarbonate panels, offers a glimpse into the interior, while the back house, wrapped in timber panels, anchors the space. These frameworks are strategically positioned at a 45-degree angle, establishing a new spatial order that enriches the visitor's experience both visually and experientially.
The layout is cleverly organized around two sets of identical columns, creating a sequence of rooms that flow into each other, offering flexible spaces for various events and gatherings. The design also cleverly utilizes the negative space between the existing brick walls and the new frameworks, crafting areas that are both semi-interior and semi-exterior.
A key feature is the mezzanine floor, where unexpected elements like a triangular balcony, pergolas, and a staircase are seamlessly integrated into the design. The staircase, in particular, is placed in a constrained area, creating a glass box in a triangular shape on the facade, highlighting the interplay between architectural boundaries and interior components.
Atelier tao+c's design philosophy is grounded in the authentic craft of construction, making every component of the structure visible and traceable. The layers of the structure, from steel floor decks to I-beams, ducts, piping, and the dropped ceiling, are clearly defined, reminiscent of the earth's layers. This approach not only tells the story of the building's construction but also serves as both the structure and the finish.
The material selection is deliberate, utilizing common industrial materials like steel beams, timber, and bricks, regardless of cost, texture, or grade. This choice aims to eliminate hierarchy within the space, creating a harmonious environment in the Ziin Store. The juxtaposition of these ordinary materials on one elevation narrates the design details and contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere.
This project is an exemplary model of cost-effective design, utilizing basic formal logic, mundane materials, and construction techniques. It showcases the potential of adaptive reuse, transforming an old warehouse into a vibrant, multi-functional space that respects its historical context while embracing modern design principles.
