Markel Building, Modernist office building in Henrico County, United States
The Markel Building is an office structure defined by a striking conical shape wrapped entirely in continuous metal sheets. The three-story form creates a distinctive silhouette that stands out from the typical rectangular designs of its era.
Markel Corporation commissioned architect Haig Jamgochian in 1962 to design the building, which opened in 1965 during the peak of the modernist movement. The project emerged at a time when simplified geometric forms were becoming the dominant approach to office design.
The National Register of Historic Places recognized the architectural value of the Markel Building in 2017 as a representation of mid-century design.
The building sits in Henrico County near the Willow Lawn shopping center and is straightforward to locate. Keep in mind that this is an active business facility, so visitors should approach with respect for the workspace.
The architect hammered texture patterns directly into the aluminum exterior before contractors completed the remaining work. This hands-on approach created an unusual tactile quality that breaks the sterile look often associated with modernist buildings.
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