VoltAir

Berlin

VoltAir

facade design Services

J.MAYER.H Architect

Office complex in Berlin Mitte; large-format glazing with structural bonding

Project

VoltAir is a visionary office building in the heart of Berlin, combining modern work environments with an urban flair. Designed by J. MAYER H. and Partner, its architecture merges bold, dynamic forms with transparency and lightness. Spanning 30,000 m², it offers flexible office spaces, loft-like interiors, and high-quality materials – creating an ideal setting for businesses of all sizes. Sustainability is a key focus, featuring LEED Gold certification, efficient district heating, and an iconic double façade that ensures a future-oriented work atmosphere.

Double-skin facade construction with large-format bonded outer glass layer

Facade Design

The building envelope of the complex consists of a variety of different façade types. While single-skin façades are used in the "joints" between the cubes, in the inner courtyard, and at entrance areas, the main façade of the cubic exterior shell features a double-skin construction. The inner layer consists of a window structure, while a steel framework with maintenance walkways serves as the substructure for the outer impact pane system. The outer glazing layer is attached solely by structural silicone bonding to an adapter profile, without any mechanical fasteners – at the time of planning, this was the largest construction of its kind in Germany.

Detailed structural analysis and testing procedure; case-by-case approval process

Approval Process and Structural Analysis

The present construction deviates from standard regulations and required extensive structural calculations and testing. SSG bonding is typically based on ETAG 002-1 with a 12 × 12 mm adhesive joint. At VoltAir, larger and modified geometries were used. Studies showed that joint stiffness increases with a higher aspect ratio. These findings enabled a more precise consideration of adhesive joint geometry in the design. Approval on a case-by-case basis was granted based on detailed tensile tests and calculations, allowing the realization of an innovative and structurally optimized impact pane construction