Form and Landscape: A Design in Context
Corporate headquarters with administrative and logistics facilities designed in dialogue with the nature reserve
Seeking to expand beyond the constraints of its existing facility, IDG-Dichtungstechnik set out to find land for a new purpose-built headquarters. The search led them to a newly developed industrial site in Albershausen, positioned at the edge of a nature reserve with commanding views of the Swabian Alb. The client's vision was clear: the building should harmonize with the striking landscape and enable employees to connect with their surroundings throughout the workday. Equally important was the commitment to cutting-edge sustainable design and energy efficiency.
Architekturbüro Offterdinger crafted a refined architectural solution: three staggered volumes that cleanly separate administration, logistics, and automated parts storage. Built from concrete, timber, and aluminium, the facility achieves the prestigious KfW 40 standard through an integrated energy strategy. Geothermal systems manage both heating and cooling via in-floor radiant systems and thermal mass activation, while ventilation units recover waste heat. A rooftop photovoltaic array powers the building and eight electric vehicle charging stations—with additional green roofs completing the sustainability picture. The same PV system energizes the Oxy-Reduct fire suppression system, which maintains a controlled oxygen environment throughout the fully automated warehouse.
Administrative spaces blend open-plan and private offices, with executive suites on the ground floor opening onto a garden terrace. Employees throughout the building enjoy outdoor access via private balconies and terraces, while expansive operable windows flood workspaces with natural light. Landscaped courtyards and gardens provide multiple break areas. Interior amenities include a fitness room for all staff, a ground-floor cafeteria with terrace, kitchenettes, and comfortable lounge areas—plus a dedicated Kids Room for employee childcare.
www.idg-gmbh.de
www.architekt-offterdinger.de
Photography:
Oliver Rieger
www.oliverrieger.com
(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 04|24)