In the heart of central Vietnam, the Gamelle Laboratory stands as a testament to innovative design, seamlessly blending functionality with nature-inspired aesthetics. Designed by Inrestudio under the direction of lead architect Kosuke Nishijima, this small laboratory for product inspection embodies a harmonious fusion of form and function.
Embracing Nature while Ensuring Protection
Situated by the sea on the edge of the factory site, the Gamelle Laboratory prioritizes both breathtaking views of nature and protection from the elements. Enclosed by an outer wall, the building strikes a delicate balance between openness and shelter, allowing occupants to enjoy panoramic vistas while safeguarding against excessive exposure to sea breeze. The porous structure of the building mediates between the internal workspace and the external environment, fostering a connection with nature without compromising functionality.
A Distinctive Architectural Identity
At first glance, the Gamelle Laboratory presents itself as a solid pavilion, commanding attention with its striking presence. Yet, upon closer inspection, its transparency reveals a captivating interplay between the building and its surroundings. A distinctive bean-shaped wall envelops the structure, shielding it from sea winds and sand while providing a visually engaging boundary between the interior and exterior spaces. Clad with locally sourced brick, this outer envelope boasts a rugged texture, inviting climbers to explore its surface while offering durable protection against salty winds.
Thoughtful Spatial Organization
Within the protective embrace of the envelope, the laboratory’s interior spaces are thoughtfully organized to optimize functionality and comfort. Six perpendicular lines divide the plan, creating parallel rooms that extend along the sea-factory axis. An office welcomes visitors at the entrance, followed by a series of inspection rooms. Each main room is accompanied by a courtyard, serving as a double skin that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor environments. Strategically positioned on both sea and factory sides, these courtyards facilitate cross-ventilation, enhancing airflow throughout the building.
Playful Interplay of Light and Form
The Gamelle Laboratory features openings of various sizes and shapes along its envelope, offering dynamic views of the surrounding landscape. Depending on the viewer’s perspective, these openings aggregate and segregate, creating a visual tapestry of light and shadow. Glazed openings provide glimpses into the laboratory’s activities, while unglazed openings reveal verdant courtyards, adding a layer of visual intrigue to the building’s design. Palm trees traverse the courtyards, infusing the solid volume of the building with a sense of fragmentary transparency.
Inrestudio’s Gamelle Laboratory stands as a testament to the transformative power of architectural innovation, seamlessly integrating nature-inspired elements with functional design principles to create a space that is both visually captivating and operationally efficient.
