Munich architects nbundm* were commissioned to design and build new headquarters for a global software company. Situated on the edge of a small forest within the Schammach industrial estate—a commercial zone in Grafing, near Munich—the site presented a distinctive challenge: a narrow, elongated plot. The client had a clear vision: the building's design should embody the company's character and philosophy. The architects responded with an elongated double-star configuration that respects the site's proportions. The resulting eight-sided polygonal form strikes a dynamic, expressionistic presence. The building's two wings—each anchored by its own atrium—accommodate the current workforce of 130 employees. Flowing pathways and public squares create openness at ground level, while the upper two floors adopt a more contained character.

The west wing houses a bistro with kitchen facilities, while the east wing provides seminar space and a generous meeting room. This solid timber structure also incorporates a recording studio, a measurement laboratory, a childcare room, a fitness area, and changing facilities – a comprehensive program of 3,300 m² of usable space distributed across three floors. The overhanging roof extends beyond the timber and window façades, shielding the building from direct sunlight and harsh weather.

The building has earned multiple accolades for both its distinctive form and thoughtfully designed interior, as well as for its comprehensive sustainability approach. Responding to its rural setting, the timber frame structure is clad in pre-weathered silver fir formwork. Approximately 1,400 m³ of timber was used throughout – from load-bearing elements and walls to ceilings and cladding. The flexible interior design allows rooms to be reconfigured to meet evolving user needs through movable wall systems.

Environmental responsibility is built in throughout: a rooftop photovoltaic system, extensive green roofing, and an air-source heat pump work together to deliver energy, heating, and cooling—a fully integrated approach to climate control.

www.nbundm.de

Photography:
Sebastian Schels
www.schels.net

(Published in CUBE Munich 01|25)