Silver Star in Sofia is a commercial and service complex for Mercedes-Benz, designed by IPA - Architecture and more as an integrated environment combining representative, service, administrative, and logistics functions. The project forms part of the studio's portfolio of public buildings and industrial buildings, with an architectural concept shaped by the requirements of the automotive brand and the operational needs of the different parts of the complex.
The architectural design organizes the program across four buildings with clearly defined customer, service, and support zones. The showroom forms the primary architectural focus and the representative frontage of the development. Three of its facades are extensively glazed, allowing the vehicles to remain visible from the exterior while establishing a strong visual relationship between the interior and the visitor areas.
The architectural expression is based on clean lines and a contrasting black-and-white palette aligned with the visual identity of Mercedes-Benz. Large glazed surfaces emphasize the transparency of the showroom, while the brand's emblem is integrated into the main facade as part of the overall composition. A projecting entrance clearly defines the point of arrival and organizes the transition from the exterior into the display space.
The service component is developed as an independent functional system incorporating an auto detailing center, service areas for passenger cars, trucks, and buses, a body paint facility, spare-parts storage and sales areas, a training center, and a car wash. Their arrangement follows the sequence of the technical processes while accommodating the circulation requirements of different vehicle types and maintaining clear separation between customer and service flows.
A dedicated reception and waiting area is provided for service customers and is functionally connected to the workshop spaces. Within the enclosed service lobby, vehicles can undergo an initial inspection and assessment before being directed to the appropriate service area.
The working environment for employees is also integrated into the overall program. Changing rooms, a canteen, dining space, meeting areas, operational workspaces, and rest areas are located above the service facility. A movable partition allows part of this level to be reconfigured according to changing functional requirements.
Located in the Kremikovtsi industrial area of Sofia, the complex is Silver Star's fourth facility in Bulgaria, following locations in Varna, Plovdiv, and Burgas. With a gross floor area of 12,714 sq m and four buildings, the project brings representative, service, and logistics functions together within an architectural framework that combines Mercedes-Benz corporate standards with solutions tailored to the specific program and operation of the complex.
