Morrow

DGNB-awarded renovation of an office building

In the 1970s, an 11-storey office building was constructed in Frankfurt's Westend district in accordance with the design of Frankfurt-based architect Helmut Joos. The first renovation was carried out in 1990 by architectural practice Kleffel Köhnholdt Gundermann and it was subsequently modernised again in 2012. Now an extensive third renovation has been carried out, taking into account visual and sustainability aspects to integrate the building into a contemporary urban context and adapt it to current requirements for modern office environments.

Reference details

Type of Building	Office and administration
Product areas	Windows
Schüco Systems	AWS 75 BS.HI+
Features	Refurbishment DGNB
Location	Frankfurt am Main, Hessen
Completion	2020
Architects	Apoprojekt
Specialist company	Feldhaus Fenster, Rompel Metallbau
Picture credits	Jean-Luc Valentin

Comprehensive building renovation and restructuring

Significant changes to the proportions and a new colour concept, in keeping with the surrounding buildings, were important conditions for the success of the renovation.

The outdated façade was replaced with a metal unitised façade with floor-to-ceiling Schüco windows in different shades of bronze, to allow plenty of light into the rooms. The windows were designed as special constructions based on the AWS 75 BS.HI aluminium window system. A decorative division between the base, tower and terrace creates a light, contemporary feel.

Contemporary working with a view

Before the renovation, the so-called Morrow did not meet the requirements of modern office buildings for potential tenants and, as a result, stood empty for years. Along with refurbishing the façade, the building was completely gutted, structural floor plan adjustments were made and the approximately 10,000 m² space was re-organised. This resulted in attractive office spaces with flexible room layouts and an unspoiled view of the Frankfurt skyline.

DGNB Platinum and DGNB Diamond for the renovation

The “Morrow” building also sets standards in terms of sustainability, which is demonstrated by the award of the DGNB Platinum certificate. It has also received the DGNB Diamond award for outstanding quality in terms of building culture and design. Today, the building is a prime example of an economically successful and sustainable building project in an existing building, which is visually integrated into the surrounding structures and is now entering its third life cycle after multiple renovations.

Product information

AWS 75 BS.HI+

Schüco Window System AWS 75 BS.HI+

Highly thermaly insulated block window with concealed vent for sophisticated design requirements

With outstanding thermal insulation values and a slimline design without visible vent contours, Schüco AWS 75 BS.HI+ (Block System High Insulation) meets the highest energy-efficiency and architectural requirements with the greatest possible transparency.

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