EDGE Südkreuz, rising in Berlin, stands out as a pioneering project that transforms sustainability in modern office architecture from a mere goal into a tangible design and engineering strategy.
In 2022, the complex was awarded the title of “Germany’s Most Sustainable Building” by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB), representing a flawless integration of engineering, ecology, and architectural aesthetics.
Architectural Concept: A Vertical Forest and Spaces Shaped by Light
At the heart of the building lies a vast atrium, supported by a timber lattice structure and covered with a transparent ETFE foil roof, continuously nourished by natural daylight.
What makes the atrium truly unique are the four tree-like structures rising within it. These vertical elements, varying in height, are connected to each other and to the office floors through platforms, filigree staircases, and bridges, creating a powerful spatial experience.
Located on the fifth floor and opening onto the atrium with its panoramic façade, the Sky Lounge forms a social focal point that completes the vertical forest concept. From the moment one steps inside the building, the warmth and natural texture of wood become a defining element of the interior atmosphere.
Sustainability Strategy: The “Cradle-to-Cradle” Approach
EDGE Südkreuz was designed according to the “cradle-to-cradle” principle, planning not only for the present but also for the building’s future transformation.
All components of the project are registered in the Madaster database. This has enabled the creation of a “material passport” for each building element, ensuring recyclability and aligning the project with the principles of the circular economy.
Innovative Approaches in the Construction Process
• Concrete Reduction
Compared to conventional construction systems, the use of reinforced concrete was reduced by 50%, significantly lowering the building’s carbon footprint.
• Lightweight and Low-Carbon Façade System
Glass fibre reinforced concrete panels weighing only 30 kg per square metre were used.
These panels are:
- 80% recyclable,
- highly durable,
- and have a decarbonising effect thanks to their special surface structures.
• Industrial Prefabrication
The prefabrication of modular building elements in factories:
- shortened the construction period,
- improved quality control,
- and ensured a high level of reliability in planning and implementation.
Flexible Interior Design: A Future-Ready Office Model
The interior design of EDGE Südkreuz is based on the principle of maximum flexibility.
The absence of load-bearing interior walls,
a minimum ceiling height of 3 metres,
and a modular grid system
allow office spaces to be easily reconfigured according to future needs.
This approach makes the building adaptable not only to today’s requirements but also to future working models.
