View of the building's exterior façade in a field of grass

A Playground of Inspiration

View of the building's exterior façade in a field of grass

A Playground of Inspiration

Pearl Izumi USA, Inc., Pearl Izumi North American Corporate Headquarters

Workplace

ZGF designed the Pearl Izumi North American Headquarters building, located on an eight-acre site at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The building’s form echoes the dramatic backdrop of the Flatirons and its naturally weathering exterior offers the appearance that it has been there a long time, shaped by the natural forces of wind, sun, and snow. The form burrows into the landscape, intuitively angled to reflect the sharp lines of the Flatirons, protect the inhabitants from the elements, and afford unobstructed views.

Location

Louisville, CO

Square Feet

55,000

Completion date

2014

Project Component

Architecture services, interior design and space planning

The large windows emit a wood glow on the vast landscape. The building is purposely rough, inside and out, and its interior plays into the project’s understated yet sophisticated form. Exposed steel and insulated concrete walls support structural insulated panels (SIPs) that also provide the final oriented strand board wood finish, creating a warm and natural interior. The open workspace is visually connected to a mezzanine loft, collaborative spaces, conference rooms, and the Shimano Experience Center.

large windows along the building with wood material closeup and drawing of the plan
rooftop of building along with drawing of different phases of implementation.
proposed drawing of staircase next to actual staircase and ceiling
drawing of office space next to actual office space with desks and windows looking outside.
large breakroom with chairs, couch, and kitchen area
drawing of exterior of building and bike path next to actual building exterior and man riding a bike. Along with downward view of lab space with workstations.

The palette of materials—concrete, glass, wood, naturally weathering steel, and accents of vibrant color—combines with high ceilings, abundant natural lighting, ideal solar orientation, and natural ventilation to link the interior space to the vast Colorado outdoors. The ensemble creates a comfortable and creative work environment for staff dedicated to product design and development. The high-energy workspace is balanced with amenities that include a fitness room with showers and lockers, a living room, break areas, and a bike room. A protected courtyard, porches, and an outdoor amphitheater extend the social and work spaces to the outdoors.

outside view of corner of the building next to interior shot of conference room area.
View of the building's exterior façade in a field of grass