More Than Just Storage Space: A Future-Ready Business Site
With the construction of a new warehouse, shopfitting specialist ppm GmbH transformed an unused brownfield site adjacent to its premises into a climate-resilient and sustainable business location.
Description
By constructing a sustainable warehouse on a previously unused brownfield site directly adjacent to its existing premises, the family-owned company ppm GmbH has secured its long-term storage capacity while creating a climate-resilient and ecologically valuable business location. Previously, storage facilities were spread across several rented warehouses in the surrounding area.
As a company that received the ÖKOPROFIT certification ten years ago and was recertified last year, ppm GmbH was committed from the outset to ensuring that the new building would not only meet functional requirements but also be resource-efficient and future-proof. Instead of constructing a conventional industrial building with sheet metal or plastic cladding, the company chose sustainable building materials. The warehouse was built primarily using timber and recycled concrete (R-concrete). Its façade, made of carbonised larch wood, together with the high proportion of timber used throughout the interior, creates a pleasant indoor climate and a high-quality working environment.
A key element of the project's climate adaptation strategy is the design of the outdoor areas. Ecologically valuable green spaces were created throughout the site to improve the local microclimate, reduce urban heat islands and provide habitats for wildlife. These landscaped areas also offer employees attractive places to relax, make phone calls or hold informal meetings, with seating and quiet retreat spaces integrated into the design.
To further strengthen climate resilience, the company implemented sustainable rainwater management measures. Partially permeable and vegetated paving systems in parking areas promote natural rainwater infiltration. In addition, rainwater is collected and temporarily stored in a Hydropoint system with a sediment separator. This reduces pressure on the drainage system, mitigates the impacts of heavy rainfall and supports the natural water cycle.
Pictures © ppm GmbH
To compensate for the development of the previously unused brownfield site, ppm GmbH, together with its employees and the local forestry authority, planted 150 trees in a nearby area. These new trees create valuable habitats for wildlife while helping to offset the ecological functions of the original vegetation in a sustainable manner.
The warehouse also sets high standards in climate mitigation. A large photovoltaic system and a heat pump provide a largely self-sufficient supply of renewable energy for the company's electric vehicles and heating system.
Employees were actively involved in the development of the site and participated in joint tree-planting activities. The outdoor areas are also used for company events, such as the firm's 30th anniversary celebration, fostering interaction, exchange and a stronger sense of identification with the company.
The result is a business site that successfully combines climate mitigation, climate adaptation, biodiversity and a high-quality working environment.
© Julian Huke Photography
Effects
Positive perception and greater acceptance among customers and visitors
Reduced CO₂ emissions and resource consumption
Improved site value and a strong role-model function
Improved climate resilience through shading and evaporative
Enhanced employee well-being and comfort
Implementation tips
- Develop the project as a team effort guided by a shared vision. Involving employees from an early stage strengthens ownership, acceptance and engagement.
- Work closely with the local municipality. Early and constructive cooperation with local authorities and permitting agencies helps streamline planning and implementation.
- Integrate climate mitigation and climate adaptation from the very beginning. This allows synergies between sustainable construction, renewable energy, stormwater management and green infrastructure to be fully realized.
- View outdoor spaces as added value. Green areas can simultaneously enhance biodiversity, climate resilience, employee well-being and the company's public image.
"From the very beginning, we knew that if we were going to build something new, it had to be with the future in mind. Our site should not only be functional but also demonstrate how sustainable construction, climate adaptation and a high-quality working environment can go hand in hand."
Annika Birmes | Project Development and Implementation, Marketing| ppm GmbH | Dormagen
Photo © Julian Huke Photography
Further information
