i+R Headquarters

2013 BTV-Bauherrenpreis (Developer's Prize)

The new i+R headquartes is the result of continuous and interdisciplinary analyses of the subjects building quality, ecology and sustainability. The award of LEED-Platinum, the highest assessment in the category "new construction", is a confirmation of this thinking and acting.

The building′s climate is regulated using geothermal energy, with the heat pump′s power provided by a photovoltaic array which also meets 70 % of the building′s energy needs. The southern side of the building is covered in a unique solar shade to avoid harsh summer sunlight, while still contributing to natural daylight throughout the building, reducing energy needs related to lighting by 70 %. The construction methodology exemplifies the i+R Group′s building skill, using mostly renewable, regionally sourced material, recyclable resources (e.g. old fishing nets used as flooring), and products manufactured by the company – concrete (structural parts), wood (infill) and wooden windows.

Cosy indoor climate, ideal light atmosphere and pleasant acoustics: In the new i+R headquarters each employee creates his or her own individual climate by means of a sophisticated control and instrumentation system. The energy source for heating and cooling is geothermal energy. A highly efficient photovoltaic plant feeds the heat pump with "house-produced" eco-electricity and covers the whole energy demand (incl. light and computers).

The energy balance thus achieved speaks for itself: With 9kWh per m² the annual consumption is far below the threshold value for passive-house standards (15 kWh).

Excellent marks were given to the light solution: Daylight and LED-illuminants are combined in such a way that an optimum of lighting quality is achieved with a 70 % energy reduction. Special sensors respond to natural light changes and gradually increase or decrease the brightness in the room.