Dornbirn, Austria
Zumtobel Group’s old factory hall in Dornbirn, Austria has reopened as the firm’s new light Forum. The building dating back to the lighting company’s founding location has been refurbished and converted.
The new Light Forum is a unique architectural space where the strong brands of the Zumtobel Group can present their comprehensive lighting expertise as well as the latest developments and technologies.
Moreover, the Light Forum provides the physical platform for Zumtobel Group Campus events and, thanks to the art and culture area it will also open up to external exhibitions in the future.
Cultural initiatives are intended to strengthen the social context and the company’s dialogue with the public as well as the immediate urban environment.
In close cooperation with Zumtobel Group, Snøhetta has developed a dynamic space concept and a co-creation space.
The central element of the spacious 4,000-square-meter hall is a generous staircase serving as a meeting point and atrium. Cubes create a flexible framework for the presentation of new technologies, products, and lighting expertise.
The unique architectural space will provide a platform promoting exchange and networking and will function as a lively space where customers, partners, employees and the public can meet and exchange thoughts and ideas.
Based on the conceptual idea of Herbert Resch of the Zumtobel Group, the revitalization of the lighting company’s old factory hall is also an important contribution to a long-term development of the company’s headquarters that are interwoven with Dornbirn’s urban fabric.
“We are delighted that, with our Light Forum, we have created a unique place to experience light, one where we can showcase our full brand spectrum and potential as an international lighting group on a permanent basis,” states Zumtobel Group CEO Alfred Felder.
“The Light Forum marks the beginning of the hybrid campus concept, which we will use to open the company up to a global audience.”
Designers: Snøhetta AS
Client: Zumtobel Group