Consarc Lobby & Cafeteria Alterations

Westampton, NJ

Consarc, an Inductotherm Group Company, is a global leader in the design and production of vacuum technology equipment to process metals and engineered materials. In 1991, this international manufacturer of industrial controlled atmosphere furnaces decided it was time to update their 1970s-era world headquarters. Two spaces in particular needed to improve their function and appearance: the main entry, and the staff dining room.

RYEBREAD began with fixing the functional aspects, simplifying & clarifying circulation, while maximizing space utilization. Then, the architect & interior designer worked on improving the finishes, lighting, and the furniture. A curved circulation desk was situated to improve sight lines, and to control access. A new carefully detailed metal stairway became a piece of modern sculpture within the space.

The intent of the redesign was to create a look that reflected Consarc’s mission, a synthesis of raw metal and sophisticated engineering. Thus, the walls of the lobby were surfaced with rugged metal grating, articulated with horizontal bands of fine cherry-stained wood. The dining room got a vending alcove, modern tables & chairs, and movable message boards.

On the exterior, a new glass vestibule created an airlock, and a more elegant entry. It provided a “front door” and gave focus to an otherwise unarticulated façade. This project demonstrates that truly, “Form Follows Function”.

Completion: 1992
Client: Consarc; Westampton, NJ
RYEBREAD Project Manager: Angelo Pappas Butera
Electrical Engineer: Jack Gabriel; Moorestown, PA
Interior Designer: Wendy Holden; Moorestown, NJ
General Contractor: Tim Little; Pemberton, NJ
Photographer: Thaddeus Govan; Philadelphia, PA