A transformative expansion of Ernsting’s headquarters into a cohesive working campus In North Rhine-Westphalia, David Chipperfield Architects have expanded Ernsting’s family headquarters into a dynamic working campus, seamlessly integrating new architectural forms with the existing landscape. The project introduces three distinct structures: the Creative Centre, a garden pavilion, and an automated warehouse (AKL), each contributing to the campus's functional and aesthetic coherence. The Creative Centre, a transformation of a former dispatch warehouse, extends the existing structure while maintaining its industrial character. The design employs deep loggias, retractable sunshades, and continuous ribbon windows, echoing the architectural language of the adjacent Service Centre. A load-bearing in-situ concrete façade allows for column-free interiors, creating flexible workspaces. The garden pavilion, centrally located, serves as a contemplative meeting space, linking the Service Centre and the Creative Centre. Its monolithic concrete walls resonate with the materiality of neighboring buildings, yet it stands as a distinct entity within the park. To the south, the AKL building addresses the logistical needs of a growing e-commerce operation. Its clear, rigorous form is defined by a high-bay racking system that supports both the façade and a green roof with integrated photovoltaic panels. The façade, clad in large-format angled glass fibre reinforced cement panels, evokes traditional timber stacking systems.

Design Highlights

Transformation of a former warehouse into the Creative Centre with flexible office spaces. Integration of deep loggias and retractable sunshades for climate control. Garden pavilion with monolithic concrete walls for a distinct yet cohesive presence. AKL building with a high-bay racking system supporting a green roof and photovoltaic panels.

Key Facts