Quarry-Inspired Oumei Ceramics Headquarters

Situated in Foshan, China, this project is designed by Foshan Topway Design for a tile brand that has a history of over 30 years. Here, the three-story atrium unveils a narrative scenario that conveys the brand culture.

The design draws inspiration from a quarry, exhibiting techniques of stone quarrying and processing show artisanship that pursues for perfection. For instance, the central atrium is built it into a 16-metre-high “quarry pit”, around which different blocks are cut out from “cliffs”. Stone pieces of various shapes overlap and penetrate each other to create a scene that evokes the image of a quarry, conveying a sense of strength and a geometric aesthetic. These “stones”, protruding from or embedded into the walls, feature different shapes and textures, creating diverse tactile and visual impressions.

The ceiling of the atrium is designed as a skylight which introduces natural light into the space. The walls are adorned with dry-cladded steel-structure sintered stones as well as tiles, while the ceiling is shaped by steel-structured frames and translucent membranes. This results in a communal area which is both sheltered and bathed in natural light, conjuring a sense of openness. A designated area for product display and selection is positioned around the atrium, which serves as a truly shared space accessible from all directions.

Guided by a philosophy rooted in sharing, symbiosis, and co-existence, the project creates a shared space in terms of functionality, a reciprocal relationship between men and nature, and harmonious coexistence between products and nature. An array of marble blocks with diverse sheens and textures are quarried from various mines worldwide. With the touch of human craftsmanship, they emanate captivating beauty reminiscent of natural rock formations. Meticulously polished, these marbles attain a primal aesthetic, a homage to the artistry of nature. The only difference about this “quarry” lies in the diversified classic stone patterns it presents. Instead of a singular pattern, these marbles showcase an assortment of renowned patterns found worldwide. With meticulous work, they are thoughtfully arranged within the same space, harmoniously coexisting and dialoguing with one another.

The central skylight atrium resembles a deep, open-air quarry pit. The designers struck a harmonious balance between structures, nature, and space. A sense of warmth and novelty permeates the space, transforming it into a cozy sanctuary. As a confluence between different areas, the atrium lobby not only provides shortcuts between different floors, but also serves as a refreshing space where people can enjoy reading, bask in the warmth of sunshine, or absorb themselves in moments of meditation. Moving upwards along the steps, visitors are guided towards the top of the quarry.

Here, the designers deconstructed the space into different proportions, and obscured the boundaries between different areas. On the whole, the team elegantly interchanges structures, materials and the space to achieve a perfect equilibrium between nature and human artwork, history and modernity, and human and environment.

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