Zecc Architects has together with Wunderhund Studios converted a derelict steel construction factory in Werkspoor, Utrecht, into a workspace for over fifty businesses and creative entrepreneurs. The building includes offices, workshops and hospitality spaces, all nested within this classic example of Dutch industrial heritage.

Make it big 
With a building this size, Zecc architects wanted to make big gestures. Wunderhund Studios were appointed responsible for the design of the Stadstuin area where BAUX is installed. The concept was to keep the scale and spaciousness and create new spaces for businesses to flourish. Much of the original brick, glass and steel features have been kept to preserve the character and identity of the building and the design team retained the factory’s linear form by ensuring it was possible to walk the entire length of the interior space. The building inspires with its spectacular height, inviting interior vistas and when night falls, the large glass factory walls illuminate the surrounding area.

Black Acoustic panels stretching 15 metres

In keeping with the scale of the building, Wunderhund and Zecc wanted a grand visual statement in the main entrance of the building. An impressive BAUX Panels wall stretches 15 metres from floor to ceiling, connecting the main entrance to a hospitality space. They chose just one colour for the BAUX Panels wall with stunning effect. Black BAUX acoustic wood wool Panels form interlocking patterns that weave textures into the space. At a distance, the wood wool panels accent the black steel staircases, and as you move closer, the panels reveal wooden fibres bringing another dimension to the patterning.

Mixing materials – benefits and drawbacks

As with any large interior space, Werkspoorfabriek offers impressive interior dimensions with one considerable drawback. Acoustics. In large open spaces, sound reflections can easily create troublesome background noise. In the central entrance area, where the hospitality space is located, the acoustics had to be perfect. The acoustic performance of BAUX Acoustic Panels has dampened sound reflections from the building’s concrete floors and high glass walls, creating a homely space for relaxation and conversation.

Mixing materials – benefits and drawbacks

As with any large interior space, Werkspoorfabriek offers impressive interior dimensions with one considerable drawback. Acoustics. In large open spaces, sound reflections can easily create troublesome background noise. In the central entrance area, where the hospitality space is located, the acoustics had to be perfect. The acoustic performance of BAUX Acoustic Panels has dampened sound reflections from the building’s concrete floors and high glass walls, creating a homely space for relaxation and conversation.