Liquid lab: Testing facility glistens like water

Designed by ACXT architects for electricity firm Arteche, the building houses equipment to test dielectric transformers. The outside is made from corrugated polished metal that reflects the light, creating different impressions from all angles.

Although it is a scientific facility, the lab is designed as a cultural landmark, standing above the other buildings, bringing beauty to an otherwise industrial area.

The fluidity of the outside material recalls our Haptic Illusion design direction, which sees designers using different textures and materials to create illusions, with one surface masquerading as another.