The MPSD wins award for green buildings

The roof garden of the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) is the winner of this year's ‘Hamburg Award for Green Buildings’. It combines research, nature, and climate action.

Covering about 2,400 square meters, the green roof turns the MPSD’s extension building in the Science City Hamburg-Bahrenfeld into a thriving ecosystem: It naturally cools the structure, improves air quality, and creates habitats for a wide range of species. Wildflowers and herbs attract bees and butterflies, while grasses, shrubs, and small trees offer shelter and nesting places for birds and insects throughout the year. Layered soil systems and a rainwater cistern help manage water sustainably and reduce heat buildup on the campus.
In this way, the roof garden not only enhances biodiversity and supports climate resilience but also invites researchers and visitors to enjoy a refreshing green space for rest and exchange.

The Hamburg Environment Agency honored the project at a ceremony on 14 October with the ‘Hamburg Award for Green Buildings’, which recognises the best greening measures for roofs, facades and interiors in the city. The award was accepted by Managing Director Prof. Philip Moll and Head of Construction Coordination Dr. Carsten Putzke.
“We are most fortunate that our frontier research on future technologies is hosted in a frontier building that exemplifies sustainable and enjoyable city architecture,” says Moll.
After winning the ‘Green Roof of the Year’ award by the BuGG Bundesverband GebäudeGrün e. V. in 2021, the Institute is delighted to receive this further accolade.

Presented for the third time this year, the ‘Hamburg Award for Green Buildings’ highlights the key role that green buildings play in sustainable and climate-resilient urban development. A total of 39 projects were in the competition, eleven of which received awards. Another winner is also located in the Science City: DESY Hall 36.

An exhibition on the ‘Hamburg Award for Green Buildings’ can be seen at the ArchitekturSalon Hamburg until 5 November. Free admission. The MPSD’s roof garden can be visited at any time (for larger groups please register with the PR department).