As sustainability becomes a cornerstone of modern construction, industries worldwide are embracing low-carbon development. The Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center in Shanghai exemplifies the fusion of environmentally friendly, high-performance bamboo building materials with altPlus's unwavering commitment to quality in the construction industry.
altPlus New Sustainable Opportunities
Nestled in the Caohejing Science and Technology Oasis Park in Shanghai's Minhang District, the Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Rooted locally, the center embodies the ethos of "Intelligent manufacturing in China, benefiting the world."
Reflecting on the project's inception, Eric Rupert, CEO of altPlus, shares: "Back in 2020, we were collaborating with Gensler on a complex structural project. This led another team within Gensler to seek our expertise on materials for Estée Lauder's new innovation center. It was an opportunity for us to contribute to a project that aligned with healthy interior products we had been developing for a separate project (the Shanghai Lirbary East project) and so we had connected the opportunity quite quickly."
altPlus Project (Public Spaces)
Working early on projects means passing of alot of hands and trying to support the stream of information from the Design teams concept through to construction and installation, Eric explains:"When we started this project our team was growing and we were constantly teaching training about the benefits but also challenges of being in projects early and coordinating down the line. Supporting from 0 to 1 has many benefits but also equal risks and challenges. The ultimate goal is that we are adding real value to the client (Estée Lauder) while positioning ourselves for success downstream. Collaborating closely with Gensler and eventually the interior contractor, K&H International, we dove deep into the design details to ensure every element, but there are inhernet challenges in this depth of work, and the timeline this fell upon - Covid Days - was not for the casual project manager."
altPlus Project (Public Spaces)
To demonstrate the dedication to quality, we conducted thorough sampling tests and product demonstrations delivered across the city when communities were not accessible, getting signatures on samples with matching that was for a special time. Additionally, our production was not accesssible and had to be relocated twice due to the operation controls.
This added to the budget and challenges of managing the operation. The timeline was quite challenging, and we had a number of redundancy productions in place due to the severity of the situation, but ultimately it worked but only because of a close project team and our partners in all areas.
altPlus Project (Multipurpose Room)
For altPlus, the Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center was more than just a project; it was an opportunity to showcase our expertise and earn the trust of a global brand. Each challenge was embraced as a chance to demonstrate our ability to deliver exceptional results.
Sustainable Solutions with altPlus
Central to the project's success was the use of our Arc i™ and Krome™ product lines. These innovative materials were instrumental in bringing a sustainable, natural design to life, utilizing a palette of colors achieved through staining and carbonization—techniques that highlight the adaptability of engineered bamboo.
Eric elaborates on the material selection:"We wanted to create a design that was not only sustainable but also captured the natural beauty of bamboo. The Arc i™ and Krome™ series allowed us to achieve a range of colors and finishes that aligned perfectly with the project's aesthetic goals. Engineered bamboo offers incredible adaptability, which was essential in meeting the unique design specifications of the innovation center."
Project Details（natural and beautiful）
In the realm of construction and design, choosing the right material is pivotal for both functionality and sustainability. Arc i™ Interior Solutions by altPlus® is an architectural series that leverages the performance and unique character of engineered bamboo.
With a variety of complementary materials and an extensive array of finishes, the Arc i™ series offers limitless combinations to suit any design vision, creating environments that are visually stunning and harmonious with nature.
Project Details（sustainable and safe）
Krome™ is a groundbreaking architectural product that marries the aesthetics and sustainability of engineered bamboo with the durability and flexibility of aluminum. Designed to be lightweight and boasting an A2-class fire resistance rating, Krome™ is ideal for modern construction demands.
Its aluminum core provides exceptional corrosion resistance, shape flexibility, and recyclability—qualities highly valued in industries like aerospace, where performance under extreme conditions is crucial.
altPlus Project (Public Spaces)
"With Krome™, we could offer a solution that met stringent fire safety standards without compromising on aesthetics or sustainability. It's a product that embodies the innovation we strive for at altPlus."
At altPlus, we consistently prioritize product quality and performance. Both Arc i™ and Krome™ meet international standards, utilizing non-toxic, low-VOC adhesives (LEED Credit Certified) to maintain the natural texture of bamboo while ensuring high fire resistance and sustainability.
A Milestone in Sustainable Design
The success of the Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center resonated beyond the immediate stakeholders. Our collaboration garnered recognition, attracting interest from other potential clients eager to explore similar sustainable solutions.
Aligned with Estée Lauder's drive towards sustainable innovation and green chemistry, the Global Innovation Center has been designed to achieve LEED and WELL Platinum certifications—the highest standards in the industry for environmental impact and human wellness. This accomplishment reflects a shared vision between Estée Lauder and altPlus: to pioneer advancements that benefit both people and the planet.
altPlus project（Multipurpose Room）
Eric expresses gratitude for the collaborative effort:"This project's success was truly a team effort. Working alongside Gensler and K&H International, we were able to push the boundaries of what's possible with sustainable materials. It's collaborations like these that drive the industry forward."
Looking ahead, altPlus remains dedicated to providing high-quality, innovative solutions. We are excited to help more clients realize their sustainability goals, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with engineered bamboo.
altPlus Project（Public Space）
The success of the project not only earned recognition from Estée Lauder but also attracted the interest of other potential clients, who approached us to inquire about the possibilities of collaboration. Meanwhile, the Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center, with the high-quality bamboo materials provided by altPlus, took a solid step toward achieving LEED and WELL Platinum certifications.
Although we contributed to the success of the project, we also recognize that this would not have been possible without the support and efforts of all our partners. In the future, we will continue to strive to provide high-quality solutions, helping more clients achieve their sustainability goals.
Embracing a Sustainble Future Together
The Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision, innovation, and sustainability converge. For architects, engineers, and business leaders, it serves as an inspiring example of how environmentally conscious design can coexist with functionality and brand identity.
Eric concludes:"At altPlus Projects, we believe every project is an opportunity to make a positive impact and leave an impression on our communites and partners. It is one of the beauty's of working with natural materials - bringing them from a stem in the forest into our daily interface via all types of forms."
At altPlus, we are crafting a sustainable future—one bamboo innovation at a time.
About altPlus Projects
altPlus is a leader in sustainable building materials, specializing in engineered bamboo solutions that combine performance, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. With a focus on innovation and quality, altPlus partners with architects, designers, and builders to create spaces that are both inspiring and sustainable.
Inspiration from Gensler's Design Philosophy
Drawing inspiration from Gensler's design of the Estée Lauder Global Innovation Center, the project seamlessly integrates advanced laboratory environments with comfortable, collaborative office spaces. Emphasizing human-centric design, the center features adaptable workstations, social spaces, and amenities like outdoor terraces and wellness centers, all aimed at enhancing creativity and innovation.
Final Thoughts
The collaboration between altPlus, Estée Lauder, Gensler, and K&H International showcases the power of partnership in achieving groundbreaking results. By uniting expertise in sustainable materials, innovative design, and construction excellence, we've contributed to a project that not only meets the highest standards of environmental impact and human wellness but also sets a new direction for future developments.
We invite architects, engineers, and business leaders to join us in exploring the possibilities of sustainable materials and design. Together, we can create environments that are not only functional and beautiful but also contribute positively to our planet.
Comments