Text description provided by architects. Hybrid Innovation Center built by HENN for furniture company Brunner Rhineau Has been officially opened. The multifunctional building combines production, assembly, office and catering areas. The hall’s modular timber structure underpins the project’s stringent requirements when it comes to sustainability, natural aesthetics and entertaining quality.
A multifunctional and hybrid innovation centre. As architect and general planner, the particular challenge for HENN with the Brunner Innovation Factory was to combine the different programs spatially and functionally. The Hybrid Innovation Center brings together development, design, prototyping, production, open workplaces, showrooms and canteens all under one roof. The interiors were designed in collaboration with the design office Ippolito Flitz. The multifunctional building expands the site of the second-generation family-owned furniture company and reflects Brunner’s ambitious growth goals and core values: functionality, quality and design.
Sustainable and intelligent wood construction. The modular wooden structure of the production hall is a special feature of the project. The material underlines the sustainability of the construction and has a decisive influence on the atmosphere and aesthetics of the space. The beams of the ceiling structure are assembled at junctions, similar to the craftsmanship and techniques used in furniture production.
Architecture as a medium of communication. Special attention is paid to openness and transparency inside and outside the building. In the hall, the assembly process can be traced step by step. Glass walls and a gallery that spans the entire length of the building intentionally create sight lines between the production area and work areas on the upper floors. Differently designed office spaces allow not only for quiet focused work, but also for meetings and teamwork.
Additionally, the new building opens up the company to the outside world. The representative room – the high glazed north-west facade represents this direct exchange between customers, visitors and employees in a practical and symbolic way and allows maximum daylight to enter the production and catering areas.
Unlike fully glazed areas, matte reflective metal facades in lightweight construction give area for composition and provide an industrial appearance.
