iWerkx - Smart Production Park Karlsruhe

Between 2020 and 2023, the ARGE iWerkx - Smart Production Park Karlsruhe project created a state-of-the-art innovation center for companies specializing in the digitalization of industrial production and trade. Funded by the state of Baden-Württemberg and the European Union, the building offers a future-oriented infrastructure for high-tech companies and start-ups.

A building with a concept: function meets flexibility

The S-shaped building with two green inner courtyards extends over five storeys and a continuous underground car park with 100 parking spaces. The total area of around 18,000 m² gross floor area (GFA ) is divided into flexibly usable rental units of 200 to 3,000 m². This structure enables individual adaptation to the needs of the tenants, which range from office space and test facilities to small series production and prototype development.

Industrial character through visible technology

A central design element is the visible building technology: heating and cooling ceiling sails as well as technical installations were mounted openly on the ceiling to emphasize the industrial character. This impression is complemented by numerous components in exposed concrete, including staircases, ceilings, walls and columns. The sanitary cores were completely removed and are located centrally on the stairwells. The rental areas themselves have been partially prepared so that individual fit-outs by the tenants are possible.

Flexible room design for modern working environments

In all areas, high-quality parquet was laid on hollow floors, allowing flexible cabling and technical adaptation. The integration of numerous consolidation points supports fast and needs-based installation. In some rental units, drywalls and system partitions have already been installed to divide the space. The open basic structure allows the building owner and tenants to flexibly change room layouts and area sizes during use and adapt them to changing requirements.

Technology meets load-bearing capacity

A particularly load-bearing screed with a load-bearing capacity of 10 kN/m² was laid on the first floor - ideal for the installation and use of heavy machinery. The screed was installed using a screed robot, which ensured precision and efficiency.

Sustainability on the roof: retention and photovoltaics

The entire roof surface was designed as a retention roof. Rainwater is initially retained before it is fed into the sewer system with a delay. This protects against overloading during heavy rainfall and at the same time ensures long-lasting irrigation of the green roof. Photovoltaic systems were also installed to contribute to a sustainable energy supply. Spacious roof terraces offer views over Karlsruhe and the adjacent Hoepfner Castle.

Façade with character and history

The entrance areas are designed with a fountain element and exposed concrete canopies with integrated greenery on the façade. These not only provide protection, but also underline the high-quality and functional character of the building.
The suspended fiber cement façade and the Exyd ceiling on the first floor round off the building with a high-quality look. The sandstone-colored fibre cement panels blend in well with the surroundings, with the Hoepfner castle in the background and the old buildings of Karlsruhe's Oststadt district. Floor-to-ceiling, projecting windows ensure a bright working environment and lighten up the façade design.
Medallions with sculptures of the Hoepfner family were integrated in the Rintheimer Straße area - a combination of modern architecture and regional history alluding to the site's past.