THE CHANGE – Eschborn’s first timber-hybrid high-rise
On behalf of PE Mergenthalerallee GmbH, a joint venture of Bauwens & ampure, we are planning the first timber-hybrid high-rise office building in Eschborn, a suburb of Frankfurt/Main – the financial capital of Germany. On 14 floors, the 60-meter-high, visionary office tower THE CHANGE will have a total of 13,500 m² of flexibly divisible rental space. Regarding architects “mission of good architecture” the high-rise provides an overall sustainable solution that will lead to a DGNB Platin certification.

Good wood architecture
It is important for the architects to use and showcase materials in various ways. In the chosen timber-hybrid construction, the building materials timber and concrete are ideally combined. Concrete is used in the basement floors and for the bracing components, while wood is also used as a structural material that partially replaces concrete and thus significantly reduces the CO₂ footprint of the building. Wood also has a positive effect on the interior and creates a pleasant and comfortable working atmosphere. This is why the timber construction in the interior of THE CHANGE remains unclad, thus sustainably presenting the project’s aspirations.

Inspiring New Work
THE CHANGE covered in addition to perfect workplaces with a high level of comfort, retreat zones and outdoor spaces, all New Work topics. The prestigious foyer on the first floor is adjoined by a staff restaurant with a café, other communal areas such as a yoga and fitness room as well as changing rooms and showers. Large windows provide sufficient natural light for the office areas. Places for outdoor work, relaxation, and communication are created on a total of four roof terraces. The rooftop terrace with rooftop bar provides great views over the Rhine-Main region.

Sustainable technology
The energy supply of THE CHANGE is mainly provided by geothermal energy and photovoltaics – only peak loads are covered by gas. Charging stations for e-cars and e-bikes, sports and changing rooms, as well as good connections to the transport network are further strengths. The existing trees on the site will be preserved and supplemented with various plants. The roof areas will also be greened, which will contribute to improving the microclimate and biodiversity overall. Smart water management is used to manage the green areas via retention roofs, a cistern, and rainwater harvesting. The project is aiming for the highest DGNB certification in Platin, a corresponding German certification system as LEED or BREAM.