Olivetti-Underwood Factory, Modern industrial architecture in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States.
The Olivetti-Underwood Factory is a modern industrial building in Harrisburg with 72 prestressed concrete units arranged in an 8x9 grid. The square roof modules rest on thin columns and create large open spaces without needing extra support.
Italian typewriter company Olivetti commissioned architect Louis Kahn in 1966 to design this manufacturing building. The completed structure in 1970 showcased innovative concrete construction techniques that were ahead of their time.
The building shows how industrial spaces can be more than just functional, using light and thoughtful design to create a better working environment. The open layout allows workers and machines to move and adapt as needed.
The open floor layout allows for quick reconfiguration if production needs change. Rainwater drains through pipes inside the supporting columns, so there are no external gutters or drainage systems to navigate.
Each concrete unit looks like a square dish with clipped corners, a design that allows large roof spans without extra support. This clever approach was an engineering accomplishment when the building opened.
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