The new reception building acts as the main site facility for processing visitors to the Samlesbury site. Facilities include reception desk and waiting area, and welfare facilities. The building also houses an exhibition area to communicate the BAE vision to visitors.
Several decisions and choices have been fixed at inception due to their fundamental nature or derived from the common experience of the team. Among these fundamentals are:
• Positioning of building makes it clearly visible from A59 therefore it needs to be a signature building which acts as a vehicle to communicate brand and corporate identity
• Striking design which alludes to the dynamic form of a fighter jet
• Provide clear uncluttered route from entrance to reception desk
• Maximise natural daylight, and views in and out of the building whilst reducing solar gain.
The floor zoning has been arranged so that service and utility areas are situated to the rear north easterly edge of the building, which has relatively low ceiling heights. The open plan exhibition/ waiting space takes advantage of the dynamic double height space at the front of the building, gradually sloping down to single storey height. This arrangement also allows the primary function of the building to be clearly seen through the glazed façade by passers-by along the access road.
Aside from the functional requirements the design creates a striking building which alludes to the dynamic form of a fighter jet. The building is conceived as a folding surface and is articulated by using the same cladding material on the external roof and wall elements.
Contemporary detailing ensures seamless integration of wall, roof and floor elements, further strengthening the concept. The reaming elements of the external skin are enclosed by a transparent glazed curtain walling system. The main public facing north east elevation is principally glazed façade providing views into the building. The transparent façade also provides views of the gatehouse and visitor car park from within.
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