The Concrete Warehouse by VG13 Architects embodies simplicity and refinement in its design and construction. The architectural concept revolves around thin reinforced concrete surfaces intricately folded around a system of pillars and beams. Despite its appearance of a lightweight wrap, this design is an integral part of a precise structural system.
Structural Elegance
The warehouse’s design primarily features thin reinforced concrete surfaces enveloping a-pillars and beams, creating an impression of elegance and lightness. The structural system is meticulously crafted to ensure both aesthetic appeal and functional integrity.
Intentional Deviation
An intriguing exception to the structural system is a slightly inclined wall, strategically designed to allow natural light into the space. This deviation from the norm enhances the perception of formal lightness while adding visual interest to the interior.
Harmonious Integration
The choice of red-pigmented concrete for the warehouse’s exterior is deliberate, aiming to match the color of terracotta roof tiles mandated in the UNESCO buffer zone where the project is situated. This harmonious integration with the surroundings creates a sense of unity and coherence.
Synthesis of Elements
While the majority of the warehouse features red-pigmented concrete, foundations and earth retaining walls are constructed using cheaper grey concrete. This intentional choice, driven by both economic and semantic considerations, contributes to the overall synthesis of the design.
Cultural Context
The Concrete Warehouse is not only a product of architectural innovation but also a reflection of its cultural, physical, and economic context. Every aspect of its design, from material selection to construction techniques, is influenced by the surrounding environment and cultural heritage.
In essence, the Concrete Warehouse by VG13 Architects is a testament to the fusion of architectural vision, structural integrity, and cultural sensitivity, resulting in a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
