© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

The programme asked for a multifunctional building which lodged two floors of retail space – three stores – five floor of office space and two penthouse apartments. The aim of the contest was to bring together ideas and identify solutions that will provide the best and most coherent integration of the structures in the local urban and commercial setting, with projects that take into account cultural and technical aspects, in order to enhance the buildings, making them recognisable, with a clear sense of identity. Drawing inspiration from Benetton’s time and money-saving production technique, which consists in dyeing assembled garments made of unbleached wool rather than batches of yarn before knitting, this iconicism was achieved by creating a neutral element in contrast with the brand’s chromatic saturation.

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

The chosen structural solution – double trusses – in conjunction with the translucent canvas skin facade creates a light play giving the building a geometric pattern when light is stronger on the inside. This solution also allows for a ventilated and eco-friendly facade, one of the competition’s demands.

retail floor plans

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

elevations and sections

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

façade construction principle and vertical distribution

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

retail space

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

retail space

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

office standard plan

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

different office configurations

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

office space

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

office space

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

office space

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.

3D Pick up your red and blue's

© Ricardo Leal . Pubblicata il 16 Febbraio 2011.