Local Motors


project type: industrial

location: knoxville, tn

size: 43,000 sf

year complete: 2015

Local Motors, a future-oriented vehicle manufacturing company, sought help from Studio Four Design when they decided to build the first of a multinational Microfactory network to offer a revolutionary space for the design and build of vehicles. The prototype facility united the co-creation and micro-manufacturing where design, 3D-printing, and assembly of automobile and hardware innovations are brought to the market at unprecedented speed.

The unique, completed facility includes a large build lab, retail center, café, lounge, design labs, research and development space, and administrative offices. The exterior utilizes a combination of metal panels, masonry, and glazing to create simple and elegant forms complementary to the functions housed inside. Metal panels wrapped around the midsection of the building feature changing colors that increase and decrease in size to simulate the concept of speed and motion.

The new Microfactory unites the worldwide Local Motors community for the creation and production of new vehicles based on local needs and serves as a place where innovators can create, and consumers can come to marvel and shop.