Example of a pure modular construction

The Brno architectural firm CHYBÍK+KRIŠTOF has developed a study for a modular facility and dining area for the employees of KOMA MODULAR. The company KOMA will manufacture and construct this building from individual modules in order to showcase the advantages of modular buildings directly on its premises. The actual construction will take place in the upcoming winter months. Since the individual modules are manufactured 90% in a production hall without the influence of weather conditions, and only 10% of the work is done on-site, modular construction can also be carried out in winter. The architects' task is to prepare a design for a building with a combined function of changing rooms and dining facilities for employees in Koma's premises. The proposed building will replace the existing inadequate structure.

Concept
The main objective of the design is, in addition to providing dignified conditions for employees, to create a building that would well represent the company and express the specific characteristics of the KOMA modular system. The concept of the building is based on the idea of two clearly defined volumes. The ground floor features the main entrance to the premises and the employees' facilities in the form of new changing rooms, while the upper floor houses a generously conceived dining area.

Changing Rooms
The system of clearly defined volumes divides the ground floor into internal and external usable and recreational areas. The formal playfulness of the ground floor contrasts with the monumental volume of the dining area above, showcasing both the structural and aesthetic potential of the modular system. The changing rooms are designed generously with direct contact between the social facilities and outdoor terraces.

Dining Area
The dining area is intentionally located on the upper floor. This represents a symbolic detachment from the work process, ensuring the necessary peace and relaxation during breaks and lunch periods. This principle is also supported by the operational logic of the new building. Its horizontal mass and orientation not only towards the cardinal directions but primarily towards the entire production area support the necessary identification of all professions with their workplace. The layout concept is based on the idea of communal dining for all professions, regardless of the company's hierarchy. In connection with the main volume of the dining area, we propose outdoor terraces for dining during the summer months.

Clarity of Containers
The chosen volumetric solution creates a showroom for the presentation not only of the structural and material possibilities of the modular system but also of the corporate culture and its relationship to all professions.

Construction
The building is assembled from M3 type modules, which are used in two sizes. Sixteen modules with basic dimensions of 3300 x 3000 x 9000 mm and three modules with basic dimensions of 3300 x 3000 x 7500 mm. The façade is designed on the first floor in two variants: 1st variant a) façade made of polycarbonate sheets b) façade made of PUR insulation and covered with expanded metal. The entire perimeter of the second floor is glazed. The kitchen facilities and supply area on the second floor are fitted with frosted glass. Shading is ensured by external textile blinds.

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Name: Employees' Facilities and Entrance Spaces of KOMA MODULAR
Where: Říčanská 1191, 763 12 Vizovice, Czech Republic
Author: CHYBIK+KRISTOF ASSOCIATED ARCHITECTS
Cooperation: Vojtěch Kouřil
Status: Architectural Study 3/2012