Randall-Paulson Architects' design for Motorbahn directly corresponded to the tradition of clean lines and machine aesthetics of the cars that it would ultimately service, Mercedes and BMW automobiles.
This project involved the adaptive reuse of an existing concrete masonry shell that was previously used as a restaurant. A glass and metal panel mezzanine inserted at the street front created second level space for an open conference room and private offices. An addition at the rear of the building contains nine full-service bays.
For Motorbahn the idea of automobile service was re-examined. Spaces for customer discussion of services and parts required flow into the retail area. Custom designed cabinets and shelving exhibit Motorbahn accessories. An interactive media wall serves as a museum element and presents the history of BMW and Mercedes through the use of photographs, artifacts, and video.
An Internet café and children’s activity room are included in the customer waiting area. The service area was treated as a clean environment to be viewed from the sales area through a large glass wall.
