Inspired by the master builders working at the high point of Victorian engineering, Vitsœ’s new home brings together a rigorous and diverse group of over 30 specialists in their fields. Built as a kit of parts the building is an extension of Vitsœ’s system-thinking and can be refined and adapted in response to the changing needs of all it serves – company, people and environment. The first building in the UK to be made entirely of LVL, this high performance engineered hardwood permits beams and columns to have smaller cross sections than softwood glulam, thereby offering greater elegance to the timber structure. Spanning 135 metres in length, 25 metres in width and 6 metres in height, the new HQ and production building is naturally ventilated and naturally lit during daylight hours via its north-facing saw-tooth roof-lights. Prevailing wind provides cross ventilation while the high ceiling height allows heat to rise for comfort in summer. Windows bring the outside in, connecting employees to the surrounding landscape, while passers-by may glimpse activities within. The kitchen and dining area face directly north offering a panoramic view of the silver birch trees in the adjacent urban community wood. Photographs ©Dirk Lindner