Design chosen for Continental’s new headquarters
The Henn design features three buildings on the construction site to the south and four buildings on the construction site to the north
Continental has selected an architectural partner for the construction of its new corporate headquarters in Hannover, Germany. The tyre and technology company will work with Munich-based firm Henn GmbH. A panel of ten judges selected Henn from a shortlist of three finalists.
“The design from the Henn architectural bureau symbolises and promotes the culture of innovation and networking at Continental from an outstanding architectural perspective,” commented Dr Elmar Degenhart at the conclusion of the juding panel’s meeting. “It meets our demand for agile, flexible and interconnected collaboration throughout the entire organisation. We were particularly impressed by the opportunities presented by the variable design of the interior. We envisage workplace concepts that enable our employees to both concentrate fully on their work and continually develop and apply their creativity and openness.”
Hannover mayor Stefan Schostok praised the winning design. “Continental and Hanover have belonged together for almost 150 years. The new headquarters of this long-standing company represent a solid partnership that is set to continue for many years to come. Continental’s new main office building will stand out on the eastern approach to the state capital of Hanover and, as it has done for several decades, give our city a real eye-catching piece of architecture.”
The Henn design features three buildings on the construction site to the south and four buildings on the construction site to the north. Each of the buildings has a different geometric style and each plot its own parking garage. A bridge concept that links all parts of the building creates, says Continental, space for creativity and the exchange of knowledge and provides a platform for spontaneous and free communication throughout the campus. The outdoor area built over various levels aims to provide a smooth transition to the public spaces, while open-air zones at different elevations provide opportunities for sport and recreation.
“The central idea behind our design is a bridge system that represents interconnectivity and promotes communication between employees,” said Professor Gunter Henn, general manager of Henn. “We’re delighted that the jury and the client, Continental, have awarded us this project, which is exciting and demanding from both an architectural and a corporate culture perspective.”
Further details regarding the new headquarters’ construction schedule will now be agreed upon. Construction work is set to start in April 2018, and employees are expected to occupy the building by the time the company celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2021.
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