European Investment Bank

Kirchberg, Luxembourg

Following rapid expansion over the last 50 years, the European Investment Bank (EIB) requires a new headquarters to support its work for the European Union Member States. Designed to offer state of the art facilities for staff, the new building will feature 1,500 work stations, a conference area, sports facilities, commercial spaces, technical rooms and basement parking levels.

The new headquarters has been conceived as two distinct but complimentary buildings set within a valley. The first will be a low rise, long span form that is defined by the sloping line of the landscape and blends with the hills that surround it. In contrast, the second comprises a tower that will become the heart of the headquarters and create a relationship with the cityscape beyond. Together, the buildings will unify the development with its surroundings, both natural and urban.

Challenge

Sustainability was our client’s key driver, so Buro Happold was appointed to provide extensive engineering services in order to meet the high aspirations set for this project. The aim is for the new headquarters to achieve Nearly Zero Energy Building and attain Class A low energy building status.

Realising a new headquarters for the European Investment Bank that unites the urban city with its natural surroundings. Image: Mecanoo Architecten BV

Solution

To meet these criteria, our engineers have developed a number of design elements aimed at reducing the building’s carbon footprint, such as the use of integrated photo-voltaic cells that will generate 50% of the power required by the development on site.

Our specialist consultants also undertaken extensive analysis and development of our proposed engineering solutions to ensure high levels of occupant comfort through carefully balanced acoustics, excellent daylighting and maintaining a good thermal environment within the space.

Value

This project demonstrates Buro Happold’s expertise in successfully delivering highly sustainable designs that will realise a building that surpasses the expectations of our client. Set to be rated BREEAM Excellent on completion, the new EIB headquarters will lead the way for future sustainable financial developments.

Image: Mecanoo Architecten BV