Linara Kaufbeuren Hale Oihana Me Ka Keena Hōʻike

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The new Linara GmbH building in the Innovapark Kaufbeuren industrial estate takes a significant step forward in sustainability. Beyond meeting ecological, economic, and social requirements, it emphasizes communication and, in particular, architectural aesthetics as key aspects of commercial construction. This striking new building demonstrates that balancing economic practicality with high design quality is possible - especially in commercial districts within the so-called "urban bacon belt.

Dimensions & Packaging

Usable area 2450 sqm

Tags

Solar energy, BIPV, sustainable building, solar architecture

Production Technology

The new building features state-of-the-art work and meeting spaces, including open-plan offices, retreat and communication zones, and the attractive bar, which serves as a meeting point for internal exchanges or as the first point of contact for external guests.

In addition to ergonomic workstations, excellent acoustics, and ample daylight, the building includes a double façade that can be fully opened manually for natural ventilation. Acting like an imaginary glazed balcony, the facade functions as a solar air collector: depending on the weather, preheated fresh air flows into the room, and during summer, both layers of glass can be fully opened to prevent heat build-up.

Design Challenge

Passive use of solar energy is achieved through a manually operated SL-Comfort double facade. During the heating period, it functions as a solar air collector: heat is generated in the inner corridor, which can be allowed to flow into the interior as preheated fresh air. When external temperatures rise, the outer shell is opened to prevent heat build-up.

The efficiency of the façade's PV modules is increased through rear ventilation, utilizing the solar chimney effect. Additionally, the PV modules are optimally aligned at a 142-degree angle to maximize the PV area.

Research

The new Linara building in the Innovapark Kaufbeuren exemplifies sustainable industrial architecture, balancing ecological, economic, and social demands with aesthetic design. The structure integrates 750 PV modules on its facades, optimized by a 142 degrees angle for maximum solar energy yield. Features include a double façade acting as a solar-air collector, geothermal systems, and invertebrate-friendly hay meadows. Combining energy efficiency, resource conservation, and innovative workspaces, it transforms sustainability into an experiential concept for users and visitors alike.

Inspiration

A key factor in the design process was the longitudinal alignment of the ensemble in a north-south direction, allowing 750 photovoltaic modules to maximize their effectiveness on the west and east façades. The building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system is optimally positioned to capture the sun’s low-angle rays in the morning and evening. With the facades angled at 142 degrees relative to each other, the PV-active surface area increases by 7 percent.

Project Duration

Sommer 2024, Kaufbeuren, Germany

Operation Flow

The Linara building operates with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. It is heated and cooled entirely by a heat pump system integrated with geothermal energy. Solar panels on the east and west façades provide significant energy, contributing to the building’s low electricity demand. Excess energy is often fed back into the grid, reducing emissions and conserving resources. This innovative approach showcases the balance between energy efficiency, modern technology, and architectural aesthetics.

Image Credits

Photographer: #1 Peter Kuczia, #2 Peter Kuczia, #3 Peter Kuczia, #4 Peter Kuczia, #5 Peter Kuczia,