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PADC
 

 
Info:
Product & Application Development Center

 

Office:
LAVA GbR
 
Position:
Project architect
(RIBA stages: A-F)
 
Client:
Undisclosed
 
Location: 
Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
 
Type:
Laboratory building
 
Status:
Completed (2015)
 
Area:
10.600m²
 
Cost:
Undisclosed
 
Partners:
Wenzel + Wenzel, DE
RMJM, Dubai, AE
 
MEP, Structure:
Battle McCarthy, GB
 
Lab organisation:   
Fraunhofer IAO, DE

The design of the four storey laboratory building for Polymer Research in Saudi Arabia aims to create a user-oriented, productive working environment that is adjusted to the geographical location known for its extreme climate conditions. With reference to the climate we decided for the typology of an atrium building characterized by the following four main features:

1. 

The organizational structure of the laboratories, developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute, which offers an efficient and flexible laboratory module and is structured and differentiated by meeting areas.

2.

The atrium as "green oasis" with a well-balanced micro-climate which serves as recreation area and offers a communicative environment.

3.

The integration of the large rectangular volume in a modulated landscape which creates its own context.

4.

The facade design adjusted to the particular climatic conditions which implements a highly efficient insulation made of polystyrene and also works as a showcase for the company´s technology.