New design for BMW’s research and innovation center An intended improvement and modernisation of working processes in the department of design and model development required major reconstruction activities in the research and innovation center of BMW (FIZ) in munich. reason for plajer & franz studio and BMW to cooperate again! the result of this fruitful col laboration is a new, intelligent and innovative design for the BMW FIZ!
In the scope of the reconstruction a coherent space of 8000 sqm has been created, stretching across the upper level of various existing buildings. a respective space layout and user-specific design have been adjusted to the client’s needs: improvement and modernization of processes. the new studio is an open, loft-style space that allows for a desired need for interaction between the design team and the department for model development. in addition, various spaces for presentation and representation, as well as conference rooms and offices have been affiliated to this new “core” of the studio. here also, any room zoning has used mainly transparent materials in order to guarantee a good sight connection between various working spaces.
One of the highlights of the newly created presentation area is a 1200 sqm large open air space in the courtyard of the building. this is a great addition to the various presentation options indoor allowing for a model and colour inspection during daylight and irrespective of weather conditions. therefore the open air area of an existing light well was covered with a movable roof. this consists of a two-part barrel roof made of ETFE cushions with an additional mobile awning (spanned below) for sight and sunlight protection.
To promote the project orientated process in the studio area, four project info zones were established at the so called provision cores. this areas offer project based studies to be presented by all means of available media in addition to the existing "tape walls". beyond this every core got a meeting room affiliated. with the redesign of the existing space inside a building complex from the late 70s plajer & franz studio has created a new collective home to each of the design divisions of BMW (BMW, BMW M, BMW I, MINI, ROLLS ROYCE, BMW motorrad). at the same time this new home offers the best possible frame conditions for innovative and creative design made by BMW.
