February through December 2009
The interior space and interactive exhibition for the new headquarters of pro aurum GmbH and Co. KG in Munich were designed and implemented by Büro Achter April, in conjunction with Andreas Mantz, mantz design konstruktion.
One of the leading European companies in precious metals trading, and numismatic coins, pro aurum has clearly defined new architectural standards with its new space.
Structure, form, and high quality materials harmonize sucessfully to convey both reliability and modernity through design. The new space allows for discretion, yet also a clear orientation with its clean lines and bold spatial elements.
On an exhibition area of approximately 100 m2, the client receives a broad, accessible introduction to the topic of “gold.” Visitors have the opportunity to feel the texture and weight of real gold bars, peruse various informational layers and gain access to different historical topics through images and audio footage. Powerful multimedia technology provides an exciting added dimension, without distracting from the exhibit’s content.
A security-protected showcase spanning approximately 10 meters displays pro aurum’s range of products. 48 exhibit pieces in gold, silver, platinum or palladium are presented in different forms, e.g. as bars or coins, and displayed on a black background. Two adjustable monitors present the pieces in different views and magnitudes, showing all relevant information, including current prices.
A 3.5 m x 2 m on-screen matrix displays the world in gold. Using an operating console with touch control, it is possible to call up acquisition, processing and trading data for the precious metal on a global scale. Fine gold particles arrange themselves in flowing patterns to form concise graphic representations.
Extremely captivating and highly coveted, the enduring fascination of gold is backed by solid arguments: The metal is highly malleable, strong, and rare, and thus an ideal investment object.
Arranged in historic chapters, these characteristics are represented through artifacts, text, images, and film sequences, concluding with a current assessment from the experts at pro aurum.
Approximately 31 kg of silver and 12.5 kg of gold are on display as bars and can be accessed directly by visitors. A one-of-a-kind experience: visitors have the opportunity to experience the feel of real gold first hand.
Answers to the most important trading questions are provided via touch screen, with up-to-the-minute pricing information and stock exchange news, thus rounding out the exhibition in terms of content.
Weighing in at about 31 kg, this coin is the centerpiece of the exhibit. The coin is stored in an elegant showcase and appears to float in space before the visitor’s eyes.
One major challenge was to bring the design in line with safety requirements: every evening, the coin must be removed from the showcase and brought to the main vault.
Architecture
FKS Generalplaner, Karlsruhe
Interior design
Andreas Mantz, mantz design konstruktion, Stuttgart
Büro Achter April, Stuttgart
Concept and exhibition design
Büro Achter April, Stuttgart
Signage system and graphic design
Daniel Utz Visuelle Gestaltung, Stuttgart
Programming
neustart corporate medialab, Munich
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