Deutsche Bank Twin Towers - Renovation

Renovation

In 2006 it was decided by Deutsche Bank that the towers would have to undergo a major renovation after 22 years due to changes in fire regulations. The renovation took place from 2007 until 2011. Not only were the fire protection systems improved, but also the entire climate, water and lighting technology were replaced. This caused energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in the building to be reduced at least 50 percent. A re-glazing with opening windows improved the energy balance further. The goal was to certify the building as a green building according to American standard LEED certification with the highest platinum for existing buildings, and the German seal of approval DGNB. The towers were the first high-rises to be given this certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. For the interior, the Bank chose Milanese architect Mario Bellini. During the construction work, approximately 2,500 employees were relocated to three other locations in Frankfurt, including the Investment Banking Center near the trade fair.

After a three-year renovation period, the 155 m (509 ft) Deutsche Bank towers were officially re-opened on 14 February 2011 in a ceremony attended by guests from politics, business and society. Almost 26 years ago to the day, in February 1985, Deutsche Bank’s headquarters at Taunusanlage 12 were formally opened for the first time. Since then, the towers have become landmarks of Frankfurt and symbols of Germany as a financial centre. Dr. Josef Ackermann, Chairman of the Management Board of Deutsche Bank AG, explained that “These towers are not just Frankfurt landmarks, they are also trademarks of a Deutsche Bank that is strong, aware of its social responsibility, and globally-oriented but still has its roots in Frankfurt and Germany. These towers stand, in the truest sense of the word, for Deutsche Bank. We are truly at home here.” Prof. Mario Bellini, designer and architect from Milan: “The towers are symbols of a very solid company that has grown over many years, one that is built on strong foundations but at the same time remains highly dynamic.”

Deutsche Bank used the renovation of the towers to implement many innovative and progressive ideas, primarily in the field of ecology. For example, the bank has cut down on its energy supply by a half, water consumption by over 70 percent and CO₂ emissions by almost 90 percent, making the new towers one of the most eco-friendly high-rise buildings in the world.

The towers were awarded the highest possible certifications of LEED Platinum and DGNB Gold for their resource and energy efficiency. Scot Horst (U.S. Green Building Council) and Professor Manfred Hegger (German Sustainable Building Council) presented the two certificates to Hermann-Josef Lamberti who, as Chief Operating Officer, was the Deutsche Bank Management Board member responsible for the renovation. Petra Roth, Mayor of the City of Frankfurt am Main, emphasized in her welcoming remarks the importance of green and sustainable buildings in urban development. “We are delighted that the modernization of the Deutsche Bank towers has attracted interest worldwide. Frankfurt deserves its reputation as a 'green city' in many ways. This is a goal that we have been working towards for many years, and one that we have further highlighted by applying for the 2014 European Green Capital Award.”