Forward focus

The Ford Motor Company, with its 105-year long history and a range of cars from the Model-T to the Falcon, is somewhat of an icon in the motoring world. The challenge for architects when designing a Ford showroom, is deciding how to reflect the iconic status and portray the modern development of the company.

Tom McKerrell, managing director of McKerrell Architects, says the design of the new Metro Ford Showroom and Service Centre was based on the revived corporate imagery of Ford Worldwide.

"The double volume display showroom is modern and spacious. To accentuate the design of the cars themselves we designed special display pods. The external and internal colour schemes are predominantly Ford white with the iconic Ford blue colour incorporated within the interior feature walls and furnishing," he says.

McKerrell Architects were responsible for town planning, architecture, project management, and interior design professional services on this showroom. Their interior design services included all fitout works of the showroom and service receptions. They were also responsible for joinery and product display designs, as well as all colours and finishes.

The Metro Ford Showroom and Service Centre are in Ann Street, Fortitude Valley amongst other premier car makers like Mercedes, BMW, Volvo and Jaguar.

"It was important that this building be distinctive from other manufacturers in the area. The two-storey glazing that contains the showroom and the suspended lighting give the building an impressive definition, which is especially evident at night."

The themed car display areas have featured backdrops. Floor finishes incorporate contrasting timber boards and chequered plate.

The interior of the showroom has a circular reception with an adjacent lounge area. The reception and lounge area was designed to be in close proximity to the service centre, which has 40 workshop bays and a basement for storage of 120 cars.

A new concept for the Ford Service Centre is encouraging customers to view a hoisted vehicle with the service advisors, thus increasing their understanding and appreciation of the service required.

For further information, contact McKerrell Architects, GPO Box 560, Brisbane, Qld 4001, phone (07) 3225 3900, fax (07) 3225 3999.