Since 1911, Fagus has been producing shoe lasts made in beech at its striking factory in Alfeld. The factory was designed by architect and Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius and is known throughout the world as the first building conforming to the modern architectural style. In 2011, this architectural masterpiece was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The GreCon customer service centre has won the special prize for building culture at the Timber Construction Awards of Lower Saxony 2016.
“Erecting a building that stands out right beside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Fagus factory is a challenge, which has been mastered beautifully by the project team,” said State Minister Meyer.
As the business enjoys continues growth and is expanding its product range, it needed to extend its office space. The new construction was completed in early 2016, links two flat-roofed existing buildings, and forms a fitting new road front for the factory complex consisting of contemporary and historic elements. The two bottom floors provide space for 60 office workers. The top floor houses meeting and training rooms.
Tradition and innovation – the key elements of the existing structure – were also the main considerations when it came to choosing the building materials: BauBuche, a structural construction material made in a high-tech process from locally grown beech was an obvious choice. BauBuche beech laminated veneer lumber was used for both the exposed skeleton support structure and some interior fixtures and fittings, including the window panelling, office partition walls, conference tables and office desks.
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