NORTH-SOUTH

Architectural Revitalization of Allianz Campus in Munich

The project presented here in Munich addresses one of the primary challenges of our time: the revitalization of large existing spaces. In this case, it involved the comprehensive renovation and densification of the former Allianz campus in Neuperlach. The planning principle was the sustainable and flexible use of the building’s 33,513 square meters of office space through restructuring and maximizing expansion within the existing structure, without compromising the building’s characteristic architecture.

All additions, such as extensions and ceiling closures, skylights, and the roof of the continuous main corridor, as well as the façades, were constructed using solid wood or hybrid wood construction methods—climate-neutral. It was clear from the outset that redefining the site as a workspace required a reconfiguration of its usage spectrum to create a diverse, communal environment.

After all, the project no longer served a single tenant but a multi-tenant situation, transforming it into a multifunctional building complex. The organizational and structural re-planning thus added a daycare center, a fitness room, a bicycle workshop with a washroom, a cafeteria accessible to all office units, and rooftop terraces. All of this is made accessible by the central circulation—the main corridor running precisely from north to south, generously equipped with daylight.

Architectural and Structural Enhancements

The corridor serves both as a place-making and communicative element, offering easy access to the newly densified satellite buildings. The three large atriums of the main building were reduced in size to allow for flexible, modern office layouts, thereby enabling efficient space utilization. The interior design for the largest tenant, Bosch Building Technologies, was undertaken by the planning and consulting firm CSMM.

The most architecturally prominent component, the rotunda housing the entrance to the south foyer, received two additional floors with 1,900 square meters of additional office space. The construction method chosen was a timber skeleton structure with timber-concrete composite ceilings. For the main entrance in the south foyer, Oliv Architekten were responsible, who, in cooperation with Colliers, also designed the interior of the 4th, 5th, and 6th floors for Dedicom.

What can architecture do for a good workplace?

Michaela Schulte: Architecture has a significant influence on workplace design. Different work styles and team sizes can be optimally supported through clear spatial organization. Flexible zones for focused and collaborative work are important. A good indoor climate, for example, through the use of wood and textiles, promotes well-being. Especially in agile work environments, architecture plays a key role in creating flexible and functional spaces that foster productivity and creativity.

To what extent should workspace design cater to individual needs?

As architects, it’s important for us to create workspaces that allow both retreat and teamwork. It’s about designing places where ideas flow and people can exchange, but also providing zones for concentrated, undisturbed work. A modern work environment must be flexible and adapt to needs. The right balance between quiet and communicative spaces promotes creativity and productivity.

Which materials do you strongly recommend to your clients in construction or interior design?

Our material choices, as demonstrated by our current projects, focus on durability and sustainability—often opting for wood. It’s important that materials not only look good: they must positively influence acoustics, light, and indoor climate. Good materials should appeal to multiple senses simultaneously and functionally and aesthetically support the work environment.