The concept envisages retaining the first three levels of the existing building from the 1960s. According to the jury, it is “an appropriate concept for the Federal Environment Agency”. 40% of the future usable space can thus be accommodated in the existing shell; the remaining space will be created by adding a storey and facade extensions made of modular wooden elements. The facade extensions give the building a light, transparent character and serve as access via the surrounding corridor areas.

The design concept is based on the responsible use of existing resources and contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions that have a global impact, as already demanded by the BDA. Thus, the partial preservation of the concrete structure offers almost 52% savings compared to a new modular wooden building.