Future German HQ of MSC;
Credit: Wandel Lorch Götze Wach / Metaform
Luxembourg-based Metaform Architects has announced that it recently won first prize in an international competition for the future headquarters of MSC - Mediterranean Shipping Company in Hamburg, Germany.
The architectural practice reported that it led the design of the project in collaboration with its German partner, Wandel Lorch Götze Wach (WLGW).
"This project marks an important milestone for our office, as it represents a clear step into the German market and demonstrates how a Luxembourg-based practice can engage internationally with architecture that is contextual, sustainable and human-centred," it said in a press release.
Located at the eastern edge of HafenCity, alongside the Ericusgraben canal and facing Lohsepark, the project reportedly "embodies the group's forward-looking vision while paying tribute to the maritime heritage of the city". The firm added that "the architecture weaves a subtle connection between local tradition and contemporary expression".
"Inspired by the region’s arcades and the movement of water, the façade combines modern sculptural language with strong contextual grounding. Open and transparent, it reflects MSC's core values of openness, sustainability and innovation," the press release continued, adding that the building has been "designed as an agile, flexible and deeply human workplace", featuring "light-filled collaborative spaces, an accessible rooftop garden and publicly oriented amenities aimed at strengthening the relationship between the company and the city". These include a restaurant and a showroom, opening onto the neighbourhood.
The firm also highlighted the project's "strong environmental commitments", noting that it is aiming for carbon neutrality and "meets the most demanding certification standards" (DGNB Sonderauszeichnung Umweltzeichen - comparable to DGNB Platinum). Its low-emission concrete structure, recycled aluminum façades and hybrid energy system (geothermal, solar and industrial heat recovery) reportedly "position the building as a model of circular and sustainable architecture".
