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TPI Composites Innovation & Technology Center

Warren, Rhode Island
Date 2020
Size 18,000 SF
Client Peter King
Awards
  • AIA Rhode Island Merit Award for Architecture in Rehibilitation, 2021

Rehabilitating and revitalizing an existing building is one of the most sustainable things that can be done for the local environment, and when it is for a company that is rooted in the community and looking to stay and grow, it can have a profound positive effect on the local and regional economy as well.

Located in Warren, Rhode Island, a town with a long history of manufacturing, the building owner and TPI Composites wanted to ensure that their manufacturing facility would allow them to remain in their current location and continue to prosper. But their current building was outdated and in need of upgrades befitting of an innovative global manufacturing corporation. They wanted corporate architecture that reflected the ethos and DNA of the company’s identity: manufacturing, fabrication, and innovation.

New front entry and gallery addition.

Beginning with the existing, non-descript, concrete block building, Union designed a new, modern, and spacious facility for the corporation’s main offices, materials innovation lab, and press room, and expanded the fabrication space. A portion of the building was converted to leasable Class A office space and materials prototyping labs for an engineering company while the remaining space in the building was updated to be ready for future tenants.

The building required significant structural upgrades and large skylights were installed to bring daylight deep into the interior of the expansive floor area. The existing second floor was opened to below to create a spacious and light-filled mezzanine overlooking the main hall.

The addition of a new entry gives the building a more significant and dignified street presence, and the entry gallery provides a space for the company to receive visitors and showcase its work.

Team work and office spaces.