Located in Bruneck, South Tyrol, NOI Techpark Bruneck is a science and technology park accommodating research institutions, university departments, an event centre, coworking spaces, and gastronomy.
Designed by KUP – ARCH, the building brings together five users with distinct spatial and technical requirements within a reinforced concrete structure. The project aligns with the NOI strategy, “Nature of Innovation,” positioning sustainability as a visible and operational component of the architecture.
The building achieves KlimaHaus Standard A under the certification system of KlimaHaus, corresponding to a Nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) under European definitions. Rooftop photovoltaic panels generate electricity, while surplus energy is converted into hydrogen for on-site storage rather than exported to the grid.
Hydrogen storage as architectural infrastructure
A defining technical component of the project is its hydrogen storage system. Rather than concealing the infrastructure, the building presents it as part of the architecture, positioning the techpark as a demonstration project for alternative energy systems.
The storage technology is based on metal hydride: hydrogen binds chemically to a solid metal powder, comparable to a sponge absorbing liquid. This allows safe and long-term storage with high energy density. The system operates as an autonomous energy unit and can supply critical systems, such as parking garage ventilation, in the event of a grid failure. This island-mode capability reduces reliance on external energy sources.
Passive climate strategy and facade articulation
The reinforced concrete load-bearing structure is wrapped in a facade of twisted vertical precast concrete slats. Developed in collaboration with Eurac Research, the rotation and spacing of these elements were optimized in relation to solar orientation and summer overheating risk. The facade provides passive shading and weather protection, reducing the need for external shading devices.
Triple-glazed windows with solar control glass further reduce thermal gains, while internal fabric glare protection is applied only where necessary. This integration of structural, climatic, and aesthetic functions reduces additional material layers and operational demands.
Material strategy and considerations
The project relies on precast concrete elements for both horizontal and vertical components. Factory production improves material efficiency, reduces construction waste, and shortens on-site building time compared to conventional cast-in-place methods. Exposed concrete walls and columns, polished concrete floors, ceramic tiles, and durable acoustic partitions minimize finishing layers and extend material lifespan.
The emphasis on durability, prefabrication, and reduced secondary materials positions the project within an efficiency-focused embodied carbon approach rather than a low-carbon structural strategy.
Concrete is used consistently throughout the interior, including exposed walls and columns, a spiral staircase, and polished concrete flooring. Colored ceramic tiles, a technical slatted ceiling, and wooden paneling in the event room complete the material palette.
Through the integration of high-performance envelope design, renewable energy production, hydrogen storage, and adaptable construction systems, NOI Techpark Bruneck presents a research-oriented building in which energy infrastructure, durability, and long-term flexibility form the core of its sustainability strategy.
Serviceability and circular potential
Technical installations are intentionally left exposed beneath the radiant heating and cooling ceiling grid. This configuration simplifies inspection, maintenance, and future upgrades, reducing the need for demolition during system replacement. The ceiling grid integrates lighting and climate control, supporting modular disassembly.
Circular considerations extend to the facade and interior elements. The precast concrete slats can be dismantled and reused, and the wooden walls and ceilings of the event hall are modular and demountable. The reinforced concrete post-and-beam system provides flexible floorplates capable of accommodating changing research, academic, and public uses.
