Location: Beijing, China.

Architect: Architectural Design and Research Institute of Tsinghua University Co., Ltd.

The Beijing Nutrichem Research Center is located in Zhongguancun Life Science Park and covers an area of 21,929 square meters. The building has a total floor area of 36218.27 square meters and is equipped with office space, R&D center, and other supporting functions on the four floors above ground, as well as parking and supporting service facilities on the two floors underground. The building uses traditional red bricks and dark copper to represent the company’s qualities of calmness and discipline, while modern-style titanium-zinc sheets and glass curtain wall imply the spirit of innovation. The main objective of the building is to create a space that represents the corporate image and gives company staff an amiable and warm feeling. The building has a nice balance between place and environment, tradition and modernity, as well as cultural and individuality. The roof top is concatenated with titanium-zinc sheets to present a unified and grand spatial atmosphere which is in tune with the corporate image. The color and texture of handmade red bricks possess incomparable delicacy and warmth that accommodate the staff with a cozy working environment. The brick-blinds to the side of the R&D building was a real challenge during construction but was finally tackled with careful design and strict control of key details. The designer is meticulous with every detail including the arranging of titanium-zinc sheets. The honeycomb panels in the back eased the deformation of the sheets. The brick columns use 800*800mm square steel as the core and combines the slanting braces to build up the internal three-dimensional frame system. The bottom is integrated with the foundation to enhance its stability. The red bricks used in the facades have both a historical heaviness and a modern expression, which is the result of its combination and interaction with new materials. The overall richness and detail reflects a strong cultural atmosphere. It is a space that opens up to everyone who passes or stays, giving them a sense of belonging.

Photo credit: Schran Images ,Yao Li.