d+a | Issue 115 • Apr/May 2020

/ COMMERCIAL / 44 To maximise the potential for the reuse and recycling of construction materials in the future, the architects decided to design a building that could be disassembled once its purpose had been exhausted. Materials such as glass was used for the exterior envelope, steel for the vertical structures and wood in the roof. These also play a fundamental structural role in meeting the strict anti-seismic regulations in Italy. Other sustainable features include a solar- panelled roof, LED lighting with an intelligent DALI management system and free cooling to reduce energy consumption and costs. INVESTING LOCALLY TO COMPETE GLOBALLY For centuries, Florentine artisans have handcrafted leather goods by the Arno River and the coveted “Made in Italy” label is synonymous with exceptional quality. The decision to locate La Manufacture in the heart of Tuscany demonstrates the brand’s commitment to investing in local workers with specialised skills, rather than moving ABOVE. Visitors enter through the main entrance on the north- east corner of the building.