New Headquarters for Volksbank Mittlerer Neckar, Wendlingen

Drees & Sommer played a key role in delivering Volksbank Forum, the multifunctional bank headquarters in Wendlingen, Baden-Württemberg, providing project management, energy consulting, and DGNB auditing

Three striking buildings have replaced the former park-and-ride lot next to Wendlingen station. They rise eight, five, and four stories on a site of approximately 5,000 square meters. The complex brings together departments of Volksbank Mittlerer Neckar that were previously spread across several locations. The bank has named its climate-friendly, multifunctional office complex Volksbank Forum, with space for around 350 employees.

Solar Power and Geothermal Energy

Volksbank Forum combines a flexible working environment with a strong focus on sustainability. Employees have access to flexible workspaces and can book rooms through an app, while around 400 photovoltaic modules on the facade generate renewable electricity on site.

Drees & Sommer managed the project, advised on energy, and guided the bank through DGNB Platinum certification. The team developed an energy and sustainability strategy that combines solar power with geothermal energy. A brine-to-water heat pump heats and cools the building. Photovoltaic panels on the roof and facade generate almost all the electricity the heating and cooling systems need. 

Added value

• An energy strategy that supports occupant comfort and environmental goals
• A flagship building with DGNB Platinum certification, built to the KfW Efficiency House 40 standard 

Services

• Project management
• Energy consulting and sustainability strategy
• Needs assessment and change management
• DGNB Platinum certification
• Audiovisual and IT systems design
• Facade engineering
• Quality assurance for the general contractor’s mechanical, electrical, and     plumbing (MEP) work
• Advice on building physics, funding, and electric mobility
• Technical monitoring