Judges' Comments
- The jury admired the architect’s use of a simple kit of parts and the strategic integration of skylight shafts to develop architectural interest throughout the space. The organization of the plan around a primary spine is used to good effect, and the abundance of daylighting and environmental graphics help create a unique setting that reinforces the brand and culture.
Project Data:
Completion Date: 11/30/2012
Square Footage: 90000
Building Use: Action Sportswear Company Headquarters
Location: Costa Mesa, CA
Project Description:
Volcom is an action sportswear company that began with an initial investment of $5,000 in 1991. Since then, they have grown to become a modern lifestyle company that embodies the creative spirit of youth culture. The company was founded on liberation, innovation and experimentation while remaining dedicated to the breakdown of established traditions. Almost since its inception, Volcom has existed in an inherited warehouse facility in Costa Mesa, California. Once the home of a major competitor, Volcom adopted the existing space and it has remained aesthetically and functionally unchanged ever since.
Throughout the years Volcom grew into a recognized international lifestyle company, however, their facility still reflected the nature of its previous owner and was woefully undersized. The majority of the space almost 77,000 SF was still being used for warehouse and distribution. Volcom decided to move the warehouse function off site and do a complete renovation of the entire space with the idea of creating a Corporate Headquarters that would reflect their brand and culture. Exterior renovations were limited to site work with California native landscape, an increased parking count, exterior showers, surfboard storage facilities and a large photovoltaic car canopy.
The phase plan was to build out the remaining warehouse/distribution space as office, transfer their work force into the new space and then remodel the existing office area. The completed project resulted in approximately 90,000 SF of newly branded headquarters space. Relying on the Volcom brand for inspiration, the space takes on a hand crafted, almost bohemian aesthetic incorporating simple, utilitarian materials, used in an extraordinary way. Raw wood, fiberglass, metal and fabric define and reinforce the Volcom image.
The centerpiece of the design is an internal Volcom “street” feature that allows for simplified internal circulation and organization as well as unique branding opportunities. The “street” incorporates art and images borrowed from the Volcom retail stores as well as staff artists and the products. Daylight is harvested through the incorporation of new skylights and the restoration of existing skylights throughout the space. A 3,500 SF indoor skate park has the ability to be converted into a presentation theater or exhibition space. A 4,000 SF company store, expansive showrooms and a sample warehouse work with the skate park to anchor the newly envisioned facility. The work environments feature natural and color corrected indirect lighting, uniquely designed collaborative spaces, specialty lounge and break out areas and product and brand display opportunities throughout. Light wells transfer and filter natural daylight into the internalized spaces. The furnishings are an eclectic combination of pre-owned, vintage new and custom elements combined to exemplify the Volcom attitude and strengthen their unique work ethic and company culture.
The Corporate Headquarters reflects the goals, aspirations and a highly defined brand that has made Volcom one of the most internationally successful action sports apparel companies in the world today. The new design is a creative blend of the grass roots nature of the company while providing the technological support and collaborative workspace that will keep the company competitive in the marketplace for years to come.
C.O.T.E. | Committee on the Environment
Submitted By: |
LPA, Inc. |
Design Architect: |
LPA, Inc. |
Associate Architect or Firm: |
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Landscape Architect: |
LPA, Inc. |
Owner / Developer: |
Volcom |
Engineer: |
LPA, Inc. |
General Contractor: |
JJS, Inc. |
Consultant: |
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Photographer: |
Costea Photography, Inc. |
Volcom Headquarters
Category
Featured Award Category
Winner Status
- Merit Award