Sustainable headquarters for Mercedes-Benz

A spacious atrium was created by opening up the centre of the building and covering the inner courtyards, with indoor living walls playing a central role in the design.

– OPL Architects

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Circular architecture in practice

The redevelopment was guided by Cradle to Cradle principles, with a strong focus on material health, circularity and long-term adaptability. Rather than demolishing the existing structure, the project team chose to reuse and transform the building. This approach significantly reduced the environmental impact of the project and demonstrates the potential of circular construction on a large scale.

Only non-toxic and reusable materials were selected throughout the redevelopment. The building was designed according to Design for Disassembly principles, ensuring that components can be reused, adapted or dismantled in the future. As a result, the headquarters is not only sustainable today but also prepared for changing needs tomorrow.

A workplace designed around people

Mercedes-Benz based the project on its MeWe office concept, where individual work and collaboration coexist within one flexible environment. The design encourages interaction while offering employees a comfortable and inspiring place to focus, meet and innovate.

A large glass-covered atrium forms the social centre of the building. Filled with natural daylight, this central space creates an open atmosphere and strengthens the connection between people and nature. The result is a workplace that prioritises wellbeing, comfort and productivity.

Green walls create a healthy indoor climate

Nature plays a central role throughout the headquarters. In total, eight Indoor SemperGreenwalls were installed in various sizes throughout the atrium and surrounding workspaces. Together with OPL Architects, a planting design was developed that seamlessly integrates with the architecture and interior design.

The living walls bring colour, texture and biodiversity into the building while helping to create a more pleasant indoor environment. Greenery contributes to improved humidity levels, enhanced acoustic comfort and a stronger connection to nature. Employees and visitors benefit from a workspace that feels healthier, calmer and more welcoming.

A building where sustainability and innovation meet

The green walls are part of a broader sustainability strategy that extends throughout the entire building. Alongside the indoor greenery, a 1,000 m² Sempergreen green roof was installed to support biodiversity, rainwater management and climate resilience.
The headquarters also incorporates a wide range of innovative technologies. A greywater recycling system reduces potable water consumption, carbon capture technology contributes to environmental performance and a fully electric energy infrastructure supports the transition to sustainable mobility. More than 400 charging points for electric vehicles are available on-site, while photovoltaic panels integrated into the atrium help generate renewable energy.

The Mercedes-Benz headquarters in Nieuwegein is a powerful example of how architecture can bring together sustainability, innovation and human wellbeing. Through the integration of circular construction principles, advanced technologies and nature-based solutions, the project sets a new benchmark for future workplaces.
The extensive use of green roofs and living walls demonstrates how greenery can become an integral part of building design, supporting both environmental goals and the everyday experience of the people who use the building.