Office – 3.000m²
Site – 300.000m²
Ineos is one of the world’s
largest producers of chemicals, and is an innovator in the petrochemical
industry. For the Ineos manufacturing plant in Geel (BE), we were commissioned
for the development of a site masterplan and the design of a centrally located
administrative building. Ultimately, the design of the building became the key
element of the masterplan, playing a central role in the organization of traffic
flows. Being positioned as a beacon at the entrance of the industrial site, the
unique architecture flows from a cross shaped ground plan that is aimed at
segregating industrial traffic from that of personnel and visitors. The four segments
of the cross allow for optimal natural daylighting and a 360° view of the
surrounding garden and industrial site. The cross concept also supports an open
space floor plan, while accommodating each department with its own respective wing.
The open space concept is further enhanced by replacing the traditionally
centralized circulation core with a flexible meeting hub.
The diagonal edges of the
architectural volume make subtle references to the carbon bonding of
polypropylene, which is produced at the plant. The façade and roof are
weatherproofed with industrial grade zinc cladding, arranged in a rhythmic
composition of vertical panels with standing seam. Detailing around windows
allows for the minimal aesthetic of the glazing.
