Blum, a global leader in furniture fittings, has long been recognized for setting trends in its industry, with a relentless pursuit of innovation and sophistication. Known for absolute precision in engineering, intense focus on details, and a personalized approach, Blum’s qualities are now incorporated in the new headquarters designed by QARTA Architektura in the Czech Republic.
The project brief for the Blum Headquarters demanded environments that would nurture creativity, education, awareness, transparency, and knowledge sharing – essential attributes reflecting the company’s internal culture. The recently completed headquarters is not just a building; it’s a dynamic environment surrounding various functional spaces designed to encourage both professional training and public engagement.
Architectural Concept and Design
The headquarters houses a training center with dedicated workshops for professionals, various dynamic spaces, and a public showroom. Additionally, the building offers various collaboration areas, ranging from open-plan spaces encouraging team interaction to secluded spots for quiet contemplation. Despite its compact exterior, the building surprises visitors with its spacious and proportioned internal areas. A natural oasis accessible via a bridge, located along an adjacent railway corridor, blends indoor and outdoor environments effortlessly.
The industrial design aesthetic of the Blum Headquarters mirrors the firm’s functional focus. The interiors are marked by exposed installations and surfaces, mostly raw concrete, which not only underline the engineering precision of Blum’s products but also create a robust, efficient atmosphere.
Blum’s commitment to operational efficiency and ecological considerations is evident in the choice of building technologies. The headquarters is equipped with an integrated ceiling cooling and heating system. The design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, improving the building’s energy efficiency and providing a comfortable, healthy environment for daily use.
Impact on Urban Landscape and Community Engagement
Strategically located at a former nondescript site, the Blum Headquarters designed by QARTA Architektura, transforms its surroundings, creating a new central point in the Vysočany district and contributing to the area’s regeneration. Its distinctive design and corner location make it a landmark, sparking curiosity and drawing engagement from the community and passersby.
The building serves as an evidence to the successful collaboration between Blum and the local city administration, illustrating how architectural ventures can significantly improve the urban quality of a city district while preserving its industrial legacy.
Studio: QARTA Architektura
Author: Jiří Řezák, David Wittassek, Pavel Fanta
Location: Prague
Project year: 2021.
Completion year: 2023.
Built-up area: 907 m²
Gross floor area: 1728 m²
Usable floor area: 1602 m²
Plot size: 4929 m²
Client: BLUM
Photographer: BoysPlayNice
Collaborator Furniture and interior design: BLUM (Richard Sajdl)
Construction management and technical supervision: MDA (Jan Hrubeš)
Statics: 4statiX (Libor Voborský)
Landscaping: Terra Florida (Jan Sulzer)
Ventilation, heating and cooling ceiling systems: WATÓ
Fire safety solutions: Peritas
Custom furniture: U Pilouse
Acoustic panelling supplier: ESPRIT
