HOK has been selected to design Porsche Cars North America's new headquarters in Atlanta, following an intense design competition. This innovative development includes a contemporary workplace, a Technical Service and Training Center, and a Customer and Driver Experience Center with an integrated road handling track. The nearly 200,000-square-foot complex will accommodate up to 400 employees under one roof on a high-profile, 26-acre Aerotropolis site near the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The headquarters will provide Porsche a strong foundation for continued growth in its largest market worldwide.
"Our vision for our new U.S. corporate home is to create a bold and energizing environment where the physical elements are as memorable and moving as the Porsche driving and ownership experience," said Detlev von Platen, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. "HOK has perfectly interpreted this vision into a dynamic design that is as emotionally charged as Porsche automobiles."
HOK's design will create a single home for the Porsche North America family by bringing together office, training and driving functions while creating a unified brand experience. An interior "Main Street" and courtyard area showcasing the vehicles will function as the heart of the facility. From this courtyard space, customers and employees will be able to interact while watching the action on the track below.
"Our design goal was to capture the essence of the Porsche brand and performance," said Todd Bertsch, director of design at HOK in Atlanta. "We have designed a movement-filled building with the same high-energy feel and performance as Porsche automobiles. By integrating the track into the lower levels of the office building and weaving in subtle motorsport-related cues, we can immerse employees, dealers and customers in the Porsche experience."
Reflecting Porsche's commitment to the environment, HOK is designing a highly sustainable building and targeting a minimum of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification. Energy conservation measures include fine-tuning the building orientation and creating a highly efficient building envelope. The team will explore opportunities for natural ventilation and on-site energy generation and green roofs that reduce the heat island effect and filter rainwater before it returns to Atlanta's water system. Employees will enjoy a contemporary light-filled workplace that promotes collaboration and inspires creativity. Central cafe areas, team rooms and huddle spaces will support Porsche's cooperative, transparent culture.
Images: HOK