
Classroom and Career Under One Roof: DHBW Heidenheim’s new building
- 4 MIN. READ
- 2025-08-28
Anyone attending the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW) Heidenheim can obtain a university degree in just three years while also gaining valuable professional experience – a study model that is highly sought after today.
To provide the right setting for teaching and research, the carefully designed building was constructed on the site of the former Württembergische Cattun Manufactur (WCM). With flexible spatial concepts, natural outdoor areas and innovative building technology, it sets new standards for contemporary university architecture. Covering an area of around 4,600 square metres, the building provides space for approximately 800 students from the Faculties of Engineering and Business, as well as for the children’s and youth development programme of the city of Heidenheim’s Future Academy (ZAK).

DHBW Heidenheim is right next to Brenzpark and blends harmoniously into its surroundings. With seating steps, lounging zones and a water feature, the outdoor areas encourage students to spend time outside and create an attractive setting that enhances daily campus life. This turns the campus into a great venue where both students and the public can meet.
The new building also sets benchmarks in ecological standards: A photovoltaic system covering around 300 square metres, with an output of 60 kWp on the roof and façade, supplies environmentally friendly electricity. Heating requirements are met by 64 energy piles anchored in the ground, coupled with two heat pumps that also provide passive cooling in summer. Together with its compact construction and the deliberate use of durable materials, the new building meets the highest standards of sustainable construction. The award of the BNB Silver certificate underlines this commitment and makes the building a model for resource-efficient university infrastructure.
The architecture firm Nickl & Partner placed particular emphasis on high-quality materials and attention to detail in this project – an approach also reflected in the choice of durable SIMONSWERK hinge systems.
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