DesignScapes Series: "HERADESIGN?, Designed to Be Reusable"

An Interview With Thomas Hartmetz, Architect at Schwille Architektenpartnerschaft MBB

Could you take us through your decision-making process behind re-purposing a 1950s car repair shop into your new office? How did the choice align with your design philosophy?

In recent years, the workshop premises were solely utilised as storage rooms and car parking spaces. The inner courtyard lay extensively paved and largely neglected. The ground floor area remained, figuratively speaking, dormant!

This area stood in Oststadt, in the eastern outskirts of Reutlingen, ripe for transformation into a creative hub with some dedication and ingenuity, and made it our new main office. As architects, this presented a thrilling challenge, particularly in our endeavour to fashion our new office space within these walls.

Given your focus on seamlessly integrating designs into repurposed buildings, how does the firm approach sustainability in its projects?

In today's world, tackling projects without considering sustainability is no longer feasible.

Our design ethos consistently prioritises the preservation of existing buildings and their progressive development.

The workshop's existing elements provided a solid foundation for our endeavours. The use of HERADESIGN? Creative is highlighted for balancing acoustics and aesthetics.

Can you share more about how these impact better work-flow and well-being in workspaces?

As we aimed to realise the concept of the open-plan office, while simultaneously considering the issue of acoustics.

From the experience acquired on previous projects completed with HERADESIGN? (primarily in kindergartens, schools, and care homes), we knew the Creative ceiling line would fully address both the architectural requirements and the acoustic challenges.

With HERADESIGN?, how do you see the longevity and durability of wood wool acoustic panels contributing to the overall design and functionality of a project?

The HERADESIGN? wood wool acoustic panels are designed to be both easily dismantled and reused.

It embodies true Cradle to Cradle Certified? perfection! How would you describe the key design philosophy and approach of Schwille, especially in terms of refurbishing existing structures?

In the case of the Schwille Architektenschaft, and many of our previous projects, we always endeavour to preserve the existing portfolio. We utilise the built environment at our disposal as a foundation, striving to develop and transition it to its next iteration as effectively as possible.

"We knew the HERADESIGN? Creative ceiling line would fully address both the architectural requirements and the acoustic challenges." — Thomas Hartmetz

Considering the emphasis on aesthetics, how does the firm strike a balance between achieving visual appeal and meeting the functional requirements of a project?

There is also a third aspect: the costs. In public projects, this is the primary focus. The HERADESIGN? panels offer a good balance between design, economy, and functionality.

When combined with various materials and colours, the wood wool panels enable the creation of a rich palette of attractive designs.

Based on past projects, are there any key lessons or insights that you have gained in terms of sustainable design, adaptive reuse, or creating optimal working environments?

At first, users, tenants and building owners are critical regarding the surface or material used. Many are familiar with wood wool panels used in underground car parks or utility rooms.

However, when they witness the result and, in particular, experience the acoustic effect within the rooms, they become highly enthusiastic.

This feeling reaffirms our selection of material. A good example here: the new HERADESIGN? ceiling installed in our office became an immediate focal point for every visitor. So much so that we receive constant inquiries about it.

About DesignScapes:

Prepare to embark on a global journey of inspiration with DesignScapes Edition 01. We have compiled our most exciting, progressive and innovative projects from S?o Paulo to Zurich, from Warsaw to Johannesburg.

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About Knauf Ceiling Solutions:

Ceilings enhance and protect the spaces in which we live, work, recover, and grow.

In 2019, two world-recognised ceiling manufacturers, Armstrong Ceiling Solutions and Knauf AMF, united to form one market-leading brand – Knauf Ceiling Solutions. Headquartered in Iphofen (Germany), Knauf Ceiling Solutions designs and manufactures multi-material ceiling and wall system solutions at nine state-of-the-art production facilities in six different countries across Europe and Asia. With a team of over 1,800 dedicated ceiling professionals, a service-driven mentality, and a diverse portfolio of materials, Knauf Ceiling Solutions helps customers to transform interior spaces into amazing experiences.

Visit www.knaufceilingsolutions.com for more information.