Outline Concept
”The base construction recapitulates the consecutive security levels of the building complex. High security areas are situated in the centre. Functions of lower security demands are at the perimeter. They allow public interaction and signify transparency and openness of the ECB.

Security barriers in the west and east of the site consist of concrete walls with cover layers of vegetation. The combination of both forms a ‘green wall’.

The impressive interior of the ‘Elsässer Halle’ is utilized as a controlled public space, which serve visitors as a central location for gathering, shopping and information.

Reflectors under the skylights in the semicircular vaults of the ‘Elsässer Halle’ provide excellent illumination through indirect natural lighting. Local interventions in the vaults for lighting and improvement of insulation are consistent with the static system of the hall. A central open space with large ponds provides adiabatic cooling as well as cooling through vaporization. The space is directly connected to the adjacent halls/conservatories at the south side and the base of the main tower.

Large multistorey conservatories between the high security base and the office towers function as gathering points with restaurants and cafés. In addition they act as thermal buffers between the exterior and the office spaces.

80% of the office space is situated on a west or east facade. Through this a reduction of the demand for solar cooling can be achieved. Most offices offer a view to the parks and River Main in the south. The office floor space of less than 400 sqm also reduces the expenses for fire protection significantly.”