The aspect of functionality in buildings has traditionally never been amiss from the larger umbrella of sustainability; they have always gone hand in hand, if not for the former being a subset of the latter. With somewhat limited resources and technology in the past—or at least more industriously used—it was imperative to build structures that did not impose on their environment. However, over time, the need for an instantaneous aesthetic language born out of industrial architecture and a skewed understanding of strictly functional architecture, along with the need for fast and easy construction meant partly suspending these principles. With the threat of climate change looming large, we are once again reckoned with a return to the root of building sustainably with functionality intact without outright disregard for a distinct aesthetic language.

In the heart of Calderara di Reno, Italy, the Bonfiglioli Headquarters emerged as a prime example of this style of building. Designed by Milan-based Peter Pichler Architecture, the truncated building is touted to be a genuine marriage of functionality and sustainability. Situated within the industrial site of Bonfiglioli, this angular structure is representative of a bold leap towards a greener, more efficient future. At first glance, the headquarters appears as a simple yet striking geometric structure. Its form is punctuated by a central courtyard and terraces adorning its sloping roof. Though this is visually commanding, the most striking part of innovative design remains its focus on maximising energy efficiency and employee well-being. This meticulously crafted design philosophy looks beyond the aesthetic appeal of the structure and thinks about its impact on the environment and the people who inhabit it.

The Bonfiglioli Headquarters is designed to be a Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB), a remarkable index in the energy efficiency of buildings, with the building harnessing the power of renewable energy sources, boasting a 3 MW peak power photovoltaic plant along with geothermal heat pumps. Its innovative and sustainable design incorporates a steel exoskeleton that not only showcases (and pronounces) its industrial character but also facilitates column-free open spaces in the interiors, creating flexibility of use for changing needs in the future.

In an effort to be compassionate towards its inhabitants, the Bonfiglioli Headquarters are also intelligently designed to optimise natural light and ventilation. The angled roof en masses and enlarges the effective surface area along the north-facing facades, flooding the workspace with indirect sunlight. Maximising natural light and incorporating green spaces yields Peter Pichler Architecture’s aspirations for a harmonious work environment that nurtures productivity and creativity within the office design.

The strong emphasis on employee well-being is furthered by the six terraces that are the culmination of the sloped roof design. All oriented towards the south, these terraces offer tranquil outdoor spaces for reflection. They also provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape and foster a deeper connection with nature. On the south-facing facades and roof, a second skin of custom pleated aluminium mesh filters harsh sunlight while paying homage to the company's industrial roots in gear motors, drive systems, planetary gearboxes, inverters and more.

Inside, the spatial layout of the headquarters is a testament to modern workplace design, encouraging connectivity and collaboration. Departments are strategically distributed across various levels, promoting public interaction and synergy with surrounding buildings. Two sculptural steel spiral staircases serve not only as physical connectors but also as symbolic conduits of creativity, inviting a continuous flow of ideas between floors.

At the heart of the building is its central courtyard. It enhances natural ventilation through a chimney effect and provides a serene oasis amidst the bustling workplace. A glass bridge on the third floor spans the courtyard, facilitating workflow and communication between departments and further promoting a collaborative atmosphere.

The headquarters serves as the final peg in the completion of EVO, the Group's largest industrial site in Italy. EVO, like the Bonfiglioli Headquarters, meets modern energy standards with a 3 MW peak power photovoltaic system on plant roofs and staff car park awnings, ensuring excellent environmental performance.

While current industry tenets often pit sustainability and functionality against each other, especially in the case of industrial architecture settings, the design of the Bonfiglioli Headquarters by the Italian architecture firm is a positive step in exploring how the two can marry effectively. By embracing innovative technologies and thoughtful design principles, it aims to set a new standard for low-carbon, energy-autonomous buildings, embodying the principles of a circular economy and paving the way for a greener future.

Furthermore, for a company that handles complex demands in industrial automation, mobile machinery and renewable energy, Peter Pichler Architecture’s response to the brief for their headquarters seems to be rather boldly realised through intelligent office architecture and an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. As industries worldwide strive towards a more sustainable future, this sample of industrial architecture is one among a string of recent developments that showcase and inspire us to reimagine the way we design, build and inhabit our built environment.

Project Details

Name: Bonfiglioli Headquarters
Location: Calderara di Reno, Bologna / Italy
Completion: 2024
Architects: Peter Pichler Architecture
Structure & MEP: ARUP
Electrical engineering: ARUP
Façade planning: Pichler Projects
Fire consultant: ICS Ingegneria
Acoustics: Solarraum
Site supervision: Studio Taddia
General Contractor: Ing Ferrari, Pichler Projects
Project management Bonfiglioli: Federico Mazzanti, Chiara Persi, Vincenzo Lamanna