Redefining Sustainability: Primeo Energie Kosmos

Bryum undertook the design of Primeo Energie Kosmos in Münchenstein with a commitment to reflect the evolving ideals of Primeo Energie while shaping the site’s identity and branding through landscape architecture. Embracing the themes of energy and climate, Primeo Energie Kosmos offers a unique spatial experience for visitors while serving as a visual representation of sustainable practices, particularly the concept of circular economy.

Innovative Design Approach: Re-Use and Adaptation

At the core of the project’s ethos is the principle of re-use, evident in the creation of the entire square using salvaged paving stones. Departing from conventional planning processes, Bryum and the client reimagined standards and adjusted planning phases to prioritize re-use. Rather than designing specific forms, the focus was on creating a flexible system of ‘strips,’ allowing for dynamic adjustments in material use and construction processes. This adaptive approach not only minimized waste but also enabled real-time modifications during construction, resulting in a final design shaped entirely by the iterative process.

Embracing Circular Economy: Materials and Construction

Over 70% of the materials used in Primeo Energie Kosmos were sourced from on-site salvaged materials, embodying the principles of circular economy. The remaining 30% comprised locally sourced materials, including residual stocks from nearby warehouses and manufacturer rejects. Natural stone paving, concrete block paving, and other elements were repurposed to create a cohesive and sustainable urban landscape. By prioritizing the reintegration of existing materials, the project minimized environmental impact and showcased the potential of resource-efficient design.

Integrating Artifacts: Preservation and Exhibition

In addition to its functional role as a reception and exhibition space, Primeo Energie Kosmos serves as a living exhibit, highlighting elements of the region’s energy history. The preservation of an existing turbine and the incorporation of natural backdrops add layers of narrative and context to the square. Climate-ready trees further the thematic engagement with climate change, while the integration of vegetation typical of the adjacent Birs waterfront area strengthens the site’s connection to its surroundings. As a result, Primeo Energie Kosmos emerges not only as a representative space for the company but also as a dynamic and engaging public realm.

Landscape Architecture in the Climate Crisis: Towards Holistic Solutions

The project raises important questions about the role of landscape architecture in addressing the climate crisis. While carbon sequestration through vegetation has been a primary focus, Primeo Energie Kosmos demonstrates the potential for hardscape ecology to contribute to sustainability. However, there remains a need for clearer standards and methodologies for managing carbon footprints throughout the design and construction process. By emphasizing the preservation of existing carbon and conducting life cycle assessments of building materials, landscape architects can play a more significant role in shaping a sustainable built environment.

In conclusion, Primeo Energie Kosmos exemplifies the transformative potential of landscape architecture in advancing sustainable practices. Through innovative design approaches and a commitment to circular economy principles, the project not only redefines the relationship between built and natural environments but also underscores the importance of holistic solutions in addressing the pressing challenges of the climate crisis.