Cobest Design Centre in Shanghai, China, completed in 2008, is a design and office complex for CoBest Group, a global apparel group established in 1997 that integrates the development, design, production and sales of both fabric and garments. The project was a direct commission and took two years from design to completion.
The Chinese character for “moon” in the standard version of Chinese script was the origin of the figurative plan for the compound. Its two main elements, straight and curved interconnected lines, are reflected in both the plan and the massing, creating dynamic views for visitors on the ground as well as from the air.
The rectilinear part of the building contains the Design and Technical Centre, the canteen and the dressmaking shop. A more organic, free-flowing form houses the offices. The space between the two volumes combines a landscaped open area with a partially covered exterior beneath a glazed roof. It serves as a backdrop for fashion shows and social gatherings, and as a popular outdoor space for lunch breaks and relaxation.
The office building is clad in clear glass and metal curtain wall, with a dense aluminum lattice sunshade layer placed in front of the south-facing glazing. The rectilinear volume is clad in local light grey granite.
- design Voytek Gorczynski Architect
- team Sam Shou, Johnson Xie, B+H Consulting
- client Cobest, Ms. Zhu Weiqin
- local architect Zhong Ke Design Institute
- project architect Mr. Xu Zhenrong
- Structural Mr. Liu Zhimao
- Mech.& Elect. Mr. Sheng Shouhua
- gross fl. area 22,000 m2
- completion 2008