christ & gantenbein unveils techno-baroque lobby for mixed-use ‘UK house’ in london
TECHNO-BAROQUE CORPORATE ARCHITECTURE by CHRIST & GANTENBEIN
Basel-based architecture firm Christ & Gantenbein unveils a techno-baroque lobby for UK House, a mixed-use building located at a prestigious West End address on Oxford Street, in London. Built in 1906, the building was remodeled and converted into an office building in the 1970s. Two of the original facades still remain, showing a playful composition of Baroque forms and Edwardian elements, while the remaining facades, showcase a modern style. The Edwardian scale and grandeur of the historic exterior set the building apart from others and bear witness to a period in British history when the highest global ambitions were manifested in the fabric of the city.
The architects at Christ & Gantenbein have worked with this past to develop their vision of corporate architecture in the 21st century: bold, futuristic, open, and communicative, yet steeped in history. This highly visible and dynamic new space, which addresses both tenants and the general public, defines the central hub of UK House and fulfills an important function for urban life by enabling communication and interaction.
all images courtesy of Thomas Adank
a unique blend of hyper-modern and historic elements
The lobby entrance by Christ & Gantenbein incorporates large windows clad in bronzed metal, blending in with the retail facades on Oxford Street. Revolving doors of chrome-plated stainless steel establish a relationship with the mirrored columns inside. Meanwhile, on the right wall of the lobby, an artwork by Wolfgang Tillman corresponds with both the exterior and interior of the distinctive building.
The walls of the lobby formally reference the baroque curves of the UK House facade, and their ‘apse-like’ endings prevent abrupt confrontations. Polished chrome elements, such as round columns or elevator doors, continue throughout. In an obvious historical reference, a combination of white and black stone forms a checkerboard marble floor. The suspended metal grid ceiling contains linear light that follows the primary spatial guidelines of the area. The walls are covered in custom ceramic tile that is richly textured but subtle and neutral in color, providing a robust backdrop for the dramatic forms of the new lobby.
CORPORATE ARCHITECTURE FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
The unique blend of hyper-modern and historic elements continues into the basement, which is connected by new stairs and elevators. Epoxy floors with a black and white pattern mark the bike path and lead to the bike store. A lobby for changing clothes, the central space for tenants arriving on two wheels, is designed with circular accents. Adjacent facilities with showers and lockers provide functional yet luxurious amenities. An informal series of objects designed by Christ & Gantenbein is strategically placed in these areas. British Renaissance and Baroque architecture has once again influenced the shapes, forms and colors.
‘We conceived this lobby as a location full of hospitality ,with a unique mix of baroque and techno-uturistic elements. The result is a creative spatial identity and generous sequence of rooms that offer high-quality experiences for the tenants and visitors alike.’ shares Emanuel Christ.
