HVB-Tower Modernisation

The HVB-Tower is a futuristic architectural icon which has shaped Munich’s skyline since 1981. The listed building, which was planned by the architects Walther and Bea Betz, was energetically refurbished and the interior rooms completely restructured by HENN. The particular challenge lay in the exact preservation of the building’s external appearance while meeting the demands of a modern, energy-efficient building envelope. The formerly single-shell façade was replaced by a double-shell façade element developing towards the interior. The dismantled façade elements were sorted and separated.

While most of the non-reusable parts could be recycled, the aluminium balustrade panels were cleaned and reused for the development of the exterior shell at the former location. The perforation of the elements for the fresh air supply was imperceptibly integrated into the façade. Improving the energy efficiency of the systems engineering allowed for the implementation of an up-to-date, user-friendly climate-control concept in the ostensibly unchanged shell. The newly developed inner shell consists of an acoustically effective balustrade panel and an electromotive tilt opening vent with double glazing. This technology allows users to tilt and close the individual interior opening vents by pressing a button, leading to a marked increase in workplace wellbeing. The perforation of the reusable façade elements required for the fresh air supply is not visible from a distance. Through the refurbishment of the plant technology, a modern indoor environment concept has been implemented.

In contrast to the façade, the interior of the building was therefore no longer in its original state and could be completely overhauled and transformed into a modern working environment during the revamping process. The previously existing office floor configuration was replaced by a Smart Working concept, developed by the client, whereby diverse working and communication possibilities were combined with each other.

The structure was given a newly designed foyer. The triangular air space, which allows views from the foyer up to the three floors above, was transformed into a dynamic space made from unfolded polygonal surfaces. Daylight streams through the triangular glass mono-pitch roof onto the matte white, solid surfaces of this crystalline spatial sculpture. The constantly changing sightlines between the floors connect the food court and the cafeteria on the first floor with the event area on the second floor, and draw the eye upwards. The powerful physical character of the iconic building, with its futuristic and optimistic charm, can now be experienced in the inside.

Due to the increased energy efficiency of the new façade, the use of environmentally friendly materials and the consistent use of renewable energy, the HVB-Tower has become a “Green Building” with LEED Platinum certification.