Gebrüder Heinemann Headquarters Extension

The extension building is a new module in the ensemble consisting of the existing storage buildings, which have been converted to accommodate the head office of Gebr. Heinemann, and the oldest building in the Elbtor quarter at the center of HafenCity, which houses the Maritime Museum. In this ensemble, the new building has a significant impact on the skyline of the southern bank of the Brooktor harbor.

The special feature of the extension building, with underground garage, six office floors, and two attic floors, is its relationship with the water—the external wall to the north is built on the wall of the Brooktor harbor and towers 42 m above it.

Located directly adjacent to the Heinemann warehouse, the new development, with its typical local brick elevation, is in keeping with its neighborhood but—with its recessed upper floors, balconies, story-high glazing, and the windows arranged in a windmill pattern—is nevertheless a contemporary interpretation of the warehouse architecture typical of northern Germany.

The offices have been arranged around an inner central zone, which accommodates shared rooms and sanitary facilities. Access is provided via a five-story glazed link building. The first floor, which is also fully glazed, serves as staff entrance, and houses the Gebr. Heinemann Museum as well as retail premises. In accordance with the clients’ wishes, the layout design on the upper floors has been devised to allow maximum flexibility. This makes it possible to divide the space into both open-plan and cellular offices.