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| Example of Apple architecture, Apple Store, NY |
Last week Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple, proposed the landing of a spaceship in Cupertino, USA. Cupertino is, and has always been, the home of Apple Mac’s offices. And so, now that Apple appears to be approaching world domination in terms of the latest (indeed the coolest) I.T. and mobile technology, it seems only apt that its HQ should mirror this brand prowess.
The said “spaceship” is actually one office building that will hold 12,000 employees. No expense has been spared with the curved construction. The existing 150 acres (previously owned by HP) currently features a standard office building, a huge amount of parking and 20% landscaping. This will be transformed into an architectural landmark with 80% of the land dedicated to around 4500 indigenous trees (inc. apricot orchards). Jobs says that they’d like “a shot at building the best office building in the world.” But why would a computer company assume a position of expertise when it comes to architecture?
This architectural egotism does seem to be a phenomenon that is affecting many of our top brand names. But is it justified? Any über successful brand does require an understanding of design versus practicality and ergonomics if they are to succeed – even more so in such economically challenging times. (There is no point in creating a computer that does a million fancy things, for example, if it looks plain ugly or just huge when sat on your desk). And form v function is an ethos well known to any architect.
So, perhaps, when a brand is top of their trade, it is quite a natural progression, after all…
Apple’s iPhone is number 2 on the “UK’s Coolest Brands” list and the iPod is number 3. Therefore, it should be of no surprise that the Number 1 Coolest Brand in the UK is also extending their inherent ability for producing the exquisite for the property industry.
The said “spaceship” is actually one office building that will hold 12,000 employees. No expense has been spared with the curved construction. The existing 150 acres (previously owned by HP) currently features a standard office building, a huge amount of parking and 20% landscaping. This will be transformed into an architectural landmark with 80% of the land dedicated to around 4500 indigenous trees (inc. apricot orchards). Jobs says that they’d like “a shot at building the best office building in the world.” But why would a computer company assume a position of expertise when it comes to architecture?
This architectural egotism does seem to be a phenomenon that is affecting many of our top brand names. But is it justified? Any über successful brand does require an understanding of design versus practicality and ergonomics if they are to succeed – even more so in such economically challenging times. (There is no point in creating a computer that does a million fancy things, for example, if it looks plain ugly or just huge when sat on your desk). And form v function is an ethos well known to any architect.
So, perhaps, when a brand is top of their trade, it is quite a natural progression, after all…
Apple’s iPhone is number 2 on the “UK’s Coolest Brands” list and the iPod is number 3. Therefore, it should be of no surprise that the Number 1 Coolest Brand in the UK is also extending their inherent ability for producing the exquisite for the property industry.
Aston Martin is the UK’s largest manufacturer of luxury sports cars. Their automobile designs, inspired by a combination of power, beauty and soul, are revered worldwide. The recent announcement of exclusive international destinations states a desire to create resorts with an emphasis on sporting facilities that is not currently available in the property/tourism market. Each resort will maintain the core elements of the Aston Martin brand whilst captivating the influences of the specific locations – a design concept that is similarly seen in the Apple stores that are each unique but consistently use a combination of light, glass and metal to achieve a trademark ambience.
As Architect, Philip Johnson, states “All architecture is shelter, all great architecture is the design of space that contains, cuddles, exalts, or stimulates the persons in that space.”
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| Aston Martin developments concept image |
In conclusion, whilst construction must, of course, be technically sound, it may also be magical – and in that, the brand genius of our generation may well be able to assist.
For more information on the Aston Martin Branded Developments please contact FIRSTLOGIC Consulting www.first-logic.com
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Great post. You are shared really informative and valuable post. Thanks for sharing.
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