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Commerzbank Tower

Foster + Partners, Frankfurt, 2007

 

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Commerzbank building 

Ian Lambot     Download Original

  • Commerzbank building    
  • View of the building in its local context    
  • View of the building across Frankfurt    
  • View of the building across Frankfurt    
  • The streetscape was an important part of the building design    
  • View of the entrance    
  • All spaces are naturally lit    
  • Skygardens improve the office environment    
  • Natural light comes in through the skygardens    
  • Skygardens allow employees to relax during breaks    
  • Office views across Frankfurt    
  • View down central atrium    
  • Basement plan    
  • Ground floor plan    
  • First floor plan    
  • Second floor plan    
  • Typical floor plan    
  • Section    
  • Concept sketch    
  • Concept sketch    
  • Glazing axonometric detail    

Triangular shaped office tower consisting of three segments grouped around a hull-height central atrium, with a focus on sustainability

Commerzbank was encouraged by the local government to create a 'green', humanitarian and ecologically friendly skyscraper.

The main concept is the use of natural systems of lighting and ventilation. Every office in the tower optimises natural daylighting and has openable windows, allowing occupants to control their own environment, resulting in energy consumption levels equivalent to half those of conventional office towers.

The plan is triangular, made of three seperate segments grouped around a central, full-height atrium. Four-storey gardens are set at different levels on each side of the tower, spiraling around the building.

The gardens have an ecological role, bringing daylight and fresh air into the central atrium, which acts as a natural ventilation chimney for the inward-facing offices.

Data

  • Begun: 1994
  • Completed: 2007
  • Floor area: 109,200m2
  • Sector: Office
  • Total cost: £260M
  • Address: Commerzbank, Frankfurt, Germany

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