Black Panther still displaying its glossy coat

Built in 2010, this office building's spectacular volume and facade were inspired by the movement and form of a black panther. Its robust glass panels give the building a bold, homogeneous surface which stood the test of time, with minimal maintenance and seamless repairs where necessary.

A picture of the ‘Black Panther’ in Graz after its completion in 2010. Photo: © Gerald Liebminger

A facade that has stood the test of time

The 'Black Panther' is the headquarters of the MPG GmbH (Michael Pachleitner Group), which manufactures glasses and optical lenses. Based on a design by Graz-based GSarchitects, the building was created to symbolise the energy within the expanding company. A special feature is the Panther's 'coat' - a multi-layered facade structure that creates remarkable reflective effects. With an area of around 3,600 square meters, the building is clad on all sides with a rainscreen cladding system of black glass panels. The floor plan of the building resembles a boomerang: with two building wings connected by a large atrium.

Meet the architect

GSarchitects

"The building owner wanted the building to look the same for many years. In order to achieve this, materials had to be chosen that would afford the same appearance over an extended period of time without requiring constant refurbishment. Quality that required spending a little more money at the outset, has certainly proven itself over time."

Danijela Gojic, architect, GSarchitects

Revisited: "Black Panther". Watch the video of the company headquarters in Graz with its unique shape and façade now! (09:08)

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Materials Overview library

Explore your options

Visit our interactive Materials Overview library to explore different materials and aesthetics options. This tool allows you to compare and contrast different textures, colours and styles - allowing you to quickly visualise and optionise ideas for your building's facade design.

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[ark] magazine

The StoJournal for Architects

This story appeared in [ark] magazine No.69. The planning and execution trades are responsible for ensuring compliance with local standards and regulations, as well as realising and warranting of the architectural details and solutions included in this case study.

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