Schaeffler USA Headquarters & Plant Expansion
Purposefully designed to unite corporate leadership, advanced manufacturing, and employee experience, Schaeffler USA’s campus expansion creates a dynamic headquarters environment that strengthens operational efficiency while elevating the identity of a global industry leader.
LOCATION Fort Mill, SC
COMPLETED 2017
SIZE 98,940 SF
PHOTOGRAPHER Peter Brentlinger
A New Corporate Hub
The 64,183 SF North American headquarters serves as the centerpiece of Schaeffler’s existing campus, strategically positioned to establish a strong relationship with surrounding facilities while creating a distinct corporate presence. The three-level building balances functionality and workplace experience through open office environments, collaborative meeting spaces, and flexible training areas that support knowledge-sharing and innovation. At its heart, a 6,300 SF dining and servery space extends seamlessly onto a landscaped plaza, offering employees opportunities for connection, respite, and engagement with views of the adjacent lake and wooded landscape. A dramatic cantilevered precast volume with expansive curtainwall glazing defines the building’s identity, appearing to float above the plaza while showcasing activity within.
Expanding Manufacturing Excellence
Complementing the headquarters, the 34,739 SF expansion of Plant 3 increases manufacturing capacity for critical automotive components, including thrust bearings used in 8-, 9-, and 10-speed automatic transmissions. The addition integrates production, raw material storage, loading operations, office space, and employee support areas into a highly efficient workflow that accommodates current operations and future growth. A durable yet refined material palette of precast concrete, metal panels, and ribbon windows reinforces the campus aesthetic while reflecting the precision and performance synonymous with the Schaeffler brand. Together, the plant expansion and new campus entry create a cohesive industrial environment that enhances both operational effectiveness and corporate identity.
