Building 36

In Mulhouse, Bâtiment 36 is an ambitious redevelopment project led by the DRLW agency: transforming a former industrial wasteland into a contemporary tertiary complex, while preserving the soul of the site.

The architecture fully embraces the foundry’s past, with a marked industrial style and large, open volumes.

Today, the building houses several companies, office and coworking spaces, as well as training and catering facilities.

Issues

The high ceilings and open-plan layout of this 3,600 m² office space provide light and character… but also generate a high level of sound reverberation. The challenge was therefore to control the acoustics of this generous volume, without altering the industrial aesthetic desired by the architects, and with a resolutely high-end finish.

Solutions

To meet this challenge, we integrated a Plafo-ultrasound acoustic ceiling solution, chosen for its absorption performance and ability to blend discreetly into the existing architecture. As with all our projects, the design was tailor-made:

• acoustic treatment adapted to large volumes to reduce echo and improve intelligibility
• careful ceiling integration to preserve the industrial lines and readability of the materials
• aesthetic coherence with the identity of the site and the expected level of luxury

Results

Building 36 now offers sustainable acoustic comfort, essential for daily work in open, shared spaces.

Users benefit from a calmer acoustic atmosphere, conducive to concentration and exchanges, while the project retains all its architectural strength: a successful balance between technical performance, aesthetic requirements and respect for the site’s history.

Photo credits: ©drlw architects