Flexible Headquarters
Christian Richters

Flexible headquarters

Architectenweb Magazine as Media

The headquarters of SABIC EUROPE, designed by Group A Architecten, conveys the ambitions of one of the largest petro-chemical companies of the Arab world. The building marks the explicit wish of the company to become market leader, while the transparent facades indicates that the organization’s open mindedness.


The architecture is based on a complete integration of technological and psychological aspects regarding the working environment. The facades are mostly metal and glass. Contrasting the businesslike and near detachment of the exteriors, the interiors are of very friendly and warm materials. The designers are responsible for both the design and the dressing of the building. The impression this building purports to make on its surroundings are apparently mirrored in its interior. The huge atrium symbolises the transparent nature of the organisation and in turn offers visibility to all levels of the building. If anything else the building is flexible. Flexibility is evident in the organisation of the floors which are zoned according to function. Work space requiring concentration is situated at the facade whilst area for communicating at the atrium.


Group A is convinced of the potential architecture has as an instrument of inspiration and as a catalyst for internal and external influence. The large complex of 10.000m2 may serve as a powerful inspiration to future neighbouring buildings. The landscape is new as well. The building is situated on a landscape deck that morphs into the entrance of the building.

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