Bratislava 29/06/2023: An attractive space in the heart of Bratislava’s new downtown on Bottova Street is about to undergo a major transformation. Immocap will revitalize the brownfield with the construction of a technologically unique ZSE headquarters building, which will be complemented by designer homes. Additionally, the historic former locksmith workshop, known as the Design Factor, will be preserved and integrated into the development.

The new headquarters of Západoslovenská energetika (ZSE), which will be both technologically and environmentally unique, will be a key part of the planned development. Immocap’s concept will deliver a building with a low carbon footprint right from the construction phase. This technologically unique and carbon-neutral building will be central part of the comprehensive transformation of the site. The project will offer state-of-the-art workspaces, alongside beautiful residential units and a cultural and social space. Additionally, the former locksmith’s workshop and well-known cultural venue will be preserved and, based on the winning architectural design, Immocap will renovate it and incorporate it into the new development.

Leadership in carbon neutrality already during construction

When designing the ZSE headquarters, Immocap focused on high energy efficiency, seamlessly integrating it with a carefully crafted energy concept. A detailed environmental impact analysis (LCA) provided a solid foundation for creating a carbon-neutral building with minimal reliance on offset programs.

The uniqueness of the new ZSE headquarters lies in its redefined approach to sustainability. Developer Immocap has meticulously analysed every material used, not only evaluating its technical properties but also considering its environmental impact. The result is an ingeniously designed energy concept that works similarly to passive houses, achieving a reduction in embodied carbon of up to 40% compared to similar projects. The building will also stand out for its energy efficiency, with the shell and core section delivering up to 70% higher operating cost savings than comparable buildings.

source: IMMOCAP

Not only will the basic operation of the ZSE building be carbon-neutral, but for the first time in the Slovak market, the construction of the project itself will also be carbon-neutral. Immocap will achieve this through the use of the latest technologies and the purposeful integration of glass surfaces, with an emphasis on limiting thermal bridges. The simple, clean architecture will further help minimise the need for the production of atypical, carbon-intensive architectural elements. 

“Entering Bratislava’s exposed downtown with the first project built in a truly carbon-neutral manner in Slovakia is the result of Immocap’s long-term strategy. We value partnering with an energy market leader that not only seeks a modern headquarters, but also healthy, productive workspaces for its team, all the while doing so in a way that is inspiring to the development world. Sustainability and environmental friendliness are essential in today’s changing climate for people to live quality lives in cities. We are happy to contribute to this with our know-how,” said Martin Šramko, CEO of Immocap.

Former locksmith workshop to be preserved, quality housing to be added

On the land in Bratislava’s Old Town stands an industrial building of a former locksmith’s workshop, once known as the Design Factory. Immocap plans to integrate this building into the new project, building on its historical significance and restoring its place on the cultural map of the city. At the same time, the goal is to elevate the entire area and bring purposeful architecture that will enhance the experience of the entire zone. The project will also include quality housing as part of the urban revitalisation. The future residential building will form a cohesive unit with the revitalised locksmith’s workshop, creating a pleasant space for locals and visitors to enjoy in their leisure time. Immocap’s ambition is to truly revitalise the area, which is why the company is launching an international competition for the architectural design of the complex in June 2023. The jury will consist of local experts: urban planner Igor Marko, architect Iľja Skoček, architect Ľubomír Závodný, CEO of Immocap Martin Šramko and Development Director of Immocap Jakub Gossányi. “The former locksmith’s workshop will clearly be a vital part of our project. We believe that the architectural competition will create a striking whole that will attract attention both from the outside and from the inside. The building will be preserved and renovated and we look forward to seeing life return to it once again,” adds Martin Šramko.

source: Čierne diery

IMMOCAP – uncovering the city’s potential

The development company IMMOCAP has been contributing to the growth of Bratislava for more than 27 years. IMMOCAP’s flagship project is the new ISTROPOLIS, which emphasises both quality public spaces and a modern cultural and social centre. The project will offer modern spaces for work, living and services. ISTROPOLIS will thus become a vibrant zone and a showcase of modern Bratislava. The office spaces of THE MILL project, part of the emerging Mlynské Nivy boulevard, are currently under construction.

IMMOCAP currently has a portfolio of commercial and residential development projects, with plans to introduce 150,000 m² of new work and residential space to the market within the next 5 years. In the past, IMMOCAP has successfully delivered the LAKESIDE PARK 02 project, along with three business centres in the office zone on Prievozská and Plynárenská Streets – Bratislava Business Center BBC III, IV and V – alongside projects focused on revitalizing the Trnavské Mýto area. A milestone for the company was the CENTRÁL project, which revitalized the former spa area with the first “green” mixed-use complex in Slovakia, earning an ecological LEED certificate. For this achievement, Immocap won the Developer of the Year award at the prestigious CIJ Awards Slovakia. Another project was the renovation of the neglected Trnavské Mýto underpass, in partnership with the Capital City of Bratislava. Over the years, the company has garnered numerous prestigious awards at home and abroad, including Best Overall Development, Building of the Year, Visio 2020 (Eurostav magazine award) and Retail Estate 2013 (Best Retail Project & Best Project of the Year Europa Property).