The former agricultural college in Freistadt, Austria has been transformed into a modern business location called the "GLUATNEST," serving as the new company headquarters for INNOVAMETALL.
The building, already generously sized at 4,000 m², presented a favorable business location due to its transportation connections and adjacent plot for a production hall. Managing Director Klaus Pichlbauer chose an old building over a new construction, seeing it as a unique challenge to give it a new lease on life while preserving its history.
The renovation involved extending the building by 1,200 m² by adding another storey and increasing the buildings density. The company utilized their own prefabricated reinforced concrete elements with integrated heating and cooling installations, along with DELTABEAM® composite beams. They were chosen because the beams allow for a slim floor structure and can be combined with almost all ceiling types. In addition a fire resistance class of R 90 is achieved without additional measures.
The result is a harmonious building with a distinctive appearance. There is direct access to the floors and individual office spaces from outside via arcades that also serve as terraces. The building incorporates various sustainable features, such as a photovoltaic system integrated into the parapet, rainwater collection for heating and cooling, and surplus energy utilization. The additional office space is rented out to sustainability-minded companies, and a daycare center has been established in the building.
The renovated former agricultural school, now called "GLUATNEST," has become a community and competence center for innovation, energy, construction, and mobility. The success of the project has inspired the building owner to plan further refurbishment projects using DELTABEAM® composite beams for their efficient and effective properties.
