HWKN designs normal factory for 3D printed headphone retail experience

normal, an innovative brand producing 3D printed, tailor-made earphones has collaborated with new york architecture firm HWKN to create an environment where its audio innovation could be brought to life. after working closely with normal’s engineering team, the designers at HWKN developed a hybrid concept for the 11,000 square foot space, combining both factory and retail environments into one. the result of a niche manufacturing facility which employs 3D printers, raw materials and product assembly, allows customers to see behind the scenes as their custom earphones are produced in real time in a mid-century industrial space in new york city.

all images courtesy HWKN

modular wall frames highlighting individual stages of the process connect the exposed structure to 15ft floor-to-ceiling glass partitions, allowing for maximum transparency to product assembly spaces, meeting areas and work spaces. seating and displays in the retail environment are sized to the precise dimensions of the structural columns to create architectural features that highlight the space in playful fashion. the result is an energized, contemporary retail space of both presentation and production.

seating and displays are designed to the precise dimensions of the structural columns

 the spatial experience allows customers to engage in each step of the manufacturing process

the maker-space process employs 3D printers, raw materials and product assembly