Studio Cantadori designed the enlargement of the Transfer Oil offices at Sacca di Colorno near Parma, an innovative location with a fresh approach to the workplace, more functional but with more spaces for sharing, that can also provide people with inspiration.
What was originally a ‘90s office building constructed with prefabricated elements and concrete filler panels has now been transformed into a modern facility with a facade of white aluminium bars which also serve as a screen against the sun.
This metal “skin” emphasises the two entrances, defined with an alternation of flat and recessed areas achieved by the stacking of the building’s two levels, which gives dynamism to its architecture.
The offices’ internal layout is conceived to make the areas between the various sectors more comfortable and interactive, encouraging communication between them and, above all, the people who work in them. The materials chosen by the architects for the various interior areas followed the same principle, especially with regard to the porcelain stoneware ceramic surfaces, where Ragno products played a key role.
The self-laying raised floors were constructed using the Patina Petrolio collection in the large 120x120 size, with a waxy appearance evoking the color of dark grey metal with iridescent glints.
The self-laying system is a dry installation method which does not require metal fixtures or glue. When constructing a large building like the new Transfer Oil headquarters, this characteristic offers multiple benefits, including quick, easy installation. The raised floor system also creates a floor surface at a higher level than the structural floor. The horizontal cavity between the two is able to accommodate the utility networks, which continue to be accessible for changes, maintenance and repairs throughout the lifetime and use of the building.
The Patina Cera large slabs in pale grey color and 120x120 size were chosen for the wall coverings of the toilets, while Patina Petrolio was selected for the walls of the stairway, with 75x150 tiles with 45° bevel cuts to highlight their profile. The interface between the building’s internal walls and external facade was covered with Ragno Patina Petrolio XT20 collection slabs in the square 80x80 size, once again a metal effect in dark grey color.
Ph Andrea Martiradonna
