new design of the 'dijon mustard laboratory' by MVRDV in dijon, france
all images courtesy MVRDV
dutch office MVRDV has been chosen to transform an old dijon mustard laboratory into a new call center
and an education center by the french city of dijon and teletech international. working with a low budget,
the project is a practice in re-use, aiming to stand as a model example for the future of other empty and
unused buildings throughout europe.
rendered exterior view
originally completed in 2004, the four-storey building is relatively simple in form and volume.
no major alterations are made to the structural make-up and the facade is not exchanged as a result of
the limited construction budget. instead, a new identity is assigned to the center by a simple print of
a flashcode, which covered the exterior surface of the volume. this finish not only clearly communicates
the activities of the company within, but also serves as a visual landmark in the area.
lobby
as a response to the irregular office hours of the new call center, the design is an opportunity in
creating a new and alternative work environment with flexible spaces. different qualities such as silent,
open or secluded places are offered. in the off-hours, the call operators can make use of a new
education center, gallery and projects incubator located within the buildling. many of the spaces are
arranged informally to encourage group interaction and open communication. a large atrium further
enlists a community feeling for the inhabitants.
work space
restaurant
building - before image