HENN

The Brainergy Hub project located in Jülich is the centerpiece of a new innovation park for companies and start-ups dedicated to sustainable and renewable energy research, bioeconomy and digitalization. Designed as a striking rotunda structure, the new build functions as a social knowledge hub for Brainergy Park, embodying the transition to renewable energy and a green future. It is a pioneering example of modular timber-hybrid construction, making innovative use of materials, forms, and energy-efficient technologies.

Set within a vibrant park, the Hub is embedded in a diverse natural biotope that helps moderate the urban microclimate and mitigate the heat island effects of the surrounding buildings. A newly created lake serves as a retention basin for stormwater runoff from the broader site.

Its circular shape makes Brainergy Hub omnidirectional and links it to all neighboring buildings. Inside this circle, modular units form a pixelated cloud, which is enclosed by three rings of balconies on the upper floors. This structure allows for easy subdivision and a playful arrangement of interior and exterior spaces. The highly rational grid is accentuated by a large central atrium and four smaller courtyards that vary from double height to triple height, providing fresh air and daylight to employees throughout the building. The façade integrates innovative ‘breathing’ ventilation units that ensure high indoor air quality, heat recovery, and improved comfort.

The modular system includes spaces for several smaller companies whose employees can gather in communal areas located around the central atrium for co-working and informal interaction. A generous spiral staircase guides visitors through this communication space, while additional external staircases serve as shortcuts for employees and allow the office units to be accessed independently from the balcony rings. The top floor features rentable event spaces with a rooftop terrace. The Hub’s recessed ground floor establishes a striking north-south axis on the site that links to the lake in the north and to an orchard in the south.

Brainergy Hub uses a hybrid structure of timber and reinforced concrete demonstrating the potential of natural, low-carbon construction materials. Wooden columns and beams are intentionally left visible. Together with the interior wood paneling, they create a warm, natural atmosphere. At the same time, the interior design leaves its distinct mark using bold colors and large-scale typography.

The hub is connected to the low-ex network, a local district heating system that supplies the entire business park. Photovoltaic panels installed on the roof and façade generate energy – any surplus produced is stored in an on-site energy storage system for later use.

Throughout the design and planning process, the carbon footprint of the project was calculated and assessed in respect of both embodied and operational carbon. This data informed design decisions to keep the building’s environmental impact as low as possible.