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JRC Headquarters: a recovery project that draws a metamorphosis between past and present

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The new Headquarters of the James Ross Collection, leader in the field of promotional and professional clothing, is the architectural expression of a metamorphosis between past and future. It is a project of recovery and new intended use by Studio Campelli, which has been able to redesign the layout of the spaces of the original building without affecting its historical significance. The reuse has invested spaces that were previously part of a building in Piacenza, in northern Italy, dating back to the First World War and intended for the production of bricks until the 1950s. In order to ensure flexibility in view of future necessary changes, Studio Campelli has built versatile areas, corresponding to an increasingly fluid concept of spaces. The result is a complex system of spaces in continuous dialogue with each other, where the meeting rooms, the areas dedicated to training and those of sociality are connected by a common spatial thread.

JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli <br /> Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali
JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli
Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali
JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli <br /> Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali
JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli
Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali

From the design thought to its completion, two years of research on the themes of light and space were necessary, being these latter the firm points on which the structure was modeled, just like a tailor-made suit for the customer. While maintaining the spatial identity and volumes of the building, it has adapted to the novel requirements of work, technology and comfort. Going into the specifics of the project, the operating spaces have been visually enlarged thanks to the high windows with irregular mesh from which natural light enters at any time of day. In contrast to the verticality of the windows, the artificial lighting complex, comprising ceiling and wall lamps, was chosen of circular shape. The illuminated bodies also differ from each other for shapes and sizes, so as to create a visually remarkable path of light.

Comfort, a value that Studio Campelli gives particular importance to, is given both by the striking heights and by the choice of a harmonious chromatic palette. The entrance is distinguished by the nine-meter double-height volume that emphasizes the connection with the upper floor, which is accessed via a glass and metal staircase endowed with a contemporary and minimal design. The upper floor, where we find the showroom area, has a strong visual impact and highlights the desire to preserve the shape and pre-existing size while maintaining the ceiling as a guideline of the narrative. The result is a place with a strong identity, whose shape is further enhanced by the design of the furnishings. The latter gives depth to the back wall bounded by the arch of the ceiling at the top, while two long lines of light run along the side walls and thin profiles intersect the space giving prominence to the exhibition islands. The lighting project, one of the highlights of the structure, was curated by Zighetti Illuminazione - Egoluce.

JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli <br /> Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali
JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli
Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali
JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli <br /> Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali
JRC Headquarters, Piacenza, Italy, Studio Campelli
Image copyright: @Andrea Pasquali

The well-being of the place is understood by Studio Campelli not only in terms of work, but also socially. For this reason, the spaces dedicated to moments of break were equipped with a kitchen area, sofas and a cafeteria. Finally, the choice to complete the layout with arboreal species is part of the broader vision of humanizing the work spaces with sustainable materials and solutions.

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