The headquarters of Kum&Go in Des Moines by Renzo Piano

In 2014, the retail chain Kum & Go announced that it had commissioned Italian architect Renzo Piano to design their new headquarters, who won the invited competition against notable figures such as Moshe Safdie, BIG, and SOM. The family business Kum & Go is known for donating one-tenth of its profits to charitable causes each year and for its long-term commitment to cultural and social events. As the company plans further growth in the coming years, the building must be as flexible as possible and ready for new types of work activities.
Construction of the new headquarters on the outskirts of Des Moines in the U.S. state of Iowa began this fall, with completion scheduled for 2018. The five-story glass structure creates the impression that its square floors are floating freely above the ground. The project, which will be LEED certified, will involve the local firm OPN. Piano wanted his design to have a light, simple, and open feel. The entire building will offer plenty of natural light, covered outdoor spaces, and a rooftop terrace. In addition to office spaces, the building will make artistic collections accessible to the public and will create a significant community center.

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