Dyson Headquarters

The first step was refurbishing and extending the existing 10,000m² building for office use and the staff restaurant. This was followed by a three-phased development of a new building for manufacturing, bringing the complex to 32,500m².

Between the original building and the new building is a glass reception pavilion. This connects the two buildings via enclosed glazed links at both ground and first floor level. With the strong design image of the Dyson brand, a distinctive, attractive building was an obvious requirement. The building also needed to perform well in its functional roles as R&D, manufacturing, distribution and administration space.

The design is that of an economical long span 'shed' with an undulating wave form roof which apparently floats above the trees, disguising the bulk of the factory. The architecture is derived from a clear expression of the structure and a limited palette of materials, and is designed as repetitions of a standard module.