Dallas-based architectural firm Merriman Anderson Architects recently designed supercar manufacturer McLaren Automotive’s new Coppell campus.
Merriman Anderson Architects is an architectural company with offices in Dallas, Austin, and other U.S. states.
Having spent 34 years in the game, the firm has worked on several Dallas projects, including renovations of the new 300 Pearl tower on downtown’s east side and the landmark First National Bank tower. It was also contracted for the redevelopment of the Statler Hotel.
The British manufacturer of luxury automobiles announced in 2019 that it was moving its North American base from New York to North Texas. The firm’s cars, assembled by hand in Surrey, England, are sold in 40 markets worldwide. Its inventory is now housed in Coppell.
McLaren chose Merriman Anderson Architects to design its new headquarters located at 1405 S. Belt Line Rd. The 31,000-square-foot property will contain a workshop, showroom, executive suite, training center, and administrative offices. It will feature a gallery to display McLaren Automotive and racing memorabilia, souvenirs, images, and awards.
The firm’s new facility will include space to support technical training and dealer sales and event space with a large video screen for presentations. The building will also contain a maintenance and training facility with mechanics’ bays.
The property on which the Coppell campus stands was once an office and warehouse.
Merriman Anderson’s Derek Dizon said in a statement that the new campus’ design aims to display the genius of McLaren Automotive’s automotive division while reflecting the company’s “luxury and innovative brand.”
The news of McLaren funding a new facility was unexpected, considering that just two years ago, it faced financial troubles. In 2020, the company had a cash flow crisis after revenue crashed due to reduced demand and slow sales.
The COVID-19 pandemic was primarily to blame as the company said it caused the 2020 Formula One motor racing season to delay its start. McLaren is one of the world’s most famous race car builders.
In May 2020, McLaren said it might have to reduce its staff capacity by 25%. However, the company achieved a solid working-capital release through the sales and deliveries of its new model, Artura. The firm’s constrained liquidity was improved by shareholders’ GBP80 million equity injection.
