Oliv Architekten

Description

Flexibility of use, timeless aesthetics and the latest technical insights are the basis for a long life cycle of buildings. Functionally designed for a single user or several different users, the main focus of M8 was on the balance between economic and ecological sustainability. The volume of the building, with side lengths of 76 m and 46 m, makes optimal use of the site. The historicising façade deliberately borrows from nineteenth-century commercial architecture, creating a striking counterpoint to the uniform postmodern architecture in the immediate area. Behind the round arches, a two-storey foyer with a café bar opens up, taking up almost the entire width of the building, and an imposing staircase leads to a raised garden located on the second floor. Exposed concrete and black steel are the dominant materials, setting a counterpoint to the façade. Various lounge areas and a barista bar act as a centre for visitors and tenants. The office floors are characterised by maximum flexibility and generous natural lighting. The entire roof can be used as a roof garden. As a special bonus, there is a spectacular 10m high and 31m long slide leading from the fourth floor into the courtyard. LEED Gold certification was granted due to the high technical and environmental standards.