Established in 1915 as a steelworks, Areal Böhler is a prime example of the successful transformation of a historic industrial site. Following the closure of operations, the 230,000-square-metre site began its conversion into a venue for trade fairs, events and commercial use in 2012.
 

Where industrial production once shaped everyday life, space is now being created for modern working environments. Through the revitalisation of Hall 21 at Areal Böhler, Vollack is laying the foundation for its future use as an office location and is responsible for the project’s concept, planning and delivery of the building envelope refurbishment.
 

The project combines the preservation of distinctive industrial architecture with the requirements of a contemporary building. Characteristic elements such as parts of the structural framework, the former crane runway and the façade structure are being retained, continuing to define the hall’s unique character.

Transforming a production hall that is more than 100 years old into high-quality office space requires engineering expertise and a sensitive approach to its rich architectural heritage, structural framework and existing materials. Comprehensive analyses of the building fabric formed the basis for a concept that successfully combines preservation with energy-efficient modernisation.
 

The scale of the building is impressive: the three-aisled hall stretches 120 metres in length and reaches a ridge height of 18.5 metres. As part of the refurbishment, the building envelope is being upgraded to meet current energy-efficiency standards. The roof, façade and floor are being modernised in line with state-of-the-art requirements to support resource-efficient operation. 

With extensive experience in the revitalisation of complex existing buildings, Vollack brings together the responsible preservation of historic structures and the expectations of sustainable, future-ready construction.

Inside the hall, flexible office spaces are being developed for multiple companies. Generous areas, some extending over two storeys, together with open communication zones, support a variety of working styles and provide room for up to 350 workplaces.