Logistics centre opts for wood

When it comes to working conditions and sustainability, the reputation of the fashion industry has little to shout about. And so it is all the more encouraging when a global corporation like Bestseller from Denmark, whose products are sold in 70 countries, pulls out all the stops to be environmentally and people-friendly. Such as with its Fashion Forward initiative, which aims to ban harmful substances from production. And now with its new project Logistics Center West. Designed by Henning Larsen, the hub will be built using timber and geared towards nature conservation, setting new standards for construction and development.

Model building project

Measuring 155,000 square metres, Logistics Center West is being built in Lelystad on the Dutch island of Flevopolder. As well as being the largest logistics centre ever to be built in Europe using cross-laminated timber, it is expected to set an example for sustainable building. But the award-winning Henning Larsen Architects and fashion giant Bestseller have more in common than the international scope of their work. Both have set themselves the task of reducing emissions, creating fair working environments, and operating according to the circular economy principle to minimize waste and preserve resources. And this building project is a prime example.

The design of the complex draws on the unique nature of the location. Inspired by the natural habitat on the surrounding islands, over 40% of the grounds (287,000 m² in total) is dedicated to the landscape. Using biogenic materials and a significant increase in biodiversity are right at the top of the project’s agenda.

Certified wood and solar power

Logistics Center West will be built primarily out of timber and other sustainable materials like straw. The wood is being sourced from suppliers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Besides this, the complex will also have 23,000 square metres of solar panels. It has been designed to meet the strict requirements of the highest BREEAM rating for sustainable building and is therefore expected to achieve an “Outstanding” certification.

The project incorporates and upgrades the surrounding wetlands and forest. As well as this, a 30,000 m² meadow will be planted on the roof – a key element of the plan that aims to boost the site’s biodiversity by over 10%.

An important aspect of the design process of the future Logistics Center West was to create a visually appealing and healthy working environment for the nearly 600 people who will work there. The elegant new building will not only include office space, shuttle storage and a pallet shuttle but also a restaurant with a spacious rooftop garden and terrace for employees and visitors alike.

Focus on biodiversity

As efforts to improve biodiversity of the grounds are solely for the benefit of the flora and fauna, Henning Larsen Architects plan to reserve a large section of the site for a wetland biotope. Here, diverse native species and varied landscaping will help to foster microhabitats.

Pleasant space to work and learn

In the wetlands, there is a walkway that serves not only as a scenic walking route but also as a “nature trail” for employees, allowing them to identify plants, refer to information diagrams and relax in the seating areas.

However, other areas of Logistics Center West are nature reserves that are strictly off limits for people. The wetlands blend in perfectly with the natural surroundings and add to the topography with open water surfaces, transition zones and wetlands that give nature space to flourish.

Aesthetics that help the environment

As Global Design Director Sonja Stockmarr, who is responsible for landscaping at Henning Larsen, emphasizes: “Our commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural environment goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about fostering ecological variety and creating a sustainable ecosystem. With over 40% of the site dedicated to its landscape, we are not just building a logistics centre. Rather, we are nurturing an environment that thrives with diverse native species, wetlands and green spaces.”

As the architect explains, the artificial wetland biotope and rooftop meadow are of integral importance when it comes to promoting diversity. She adds: “This intentional integration of nature into the workspace creates a unique atmosphere where employees can connect with the natural world, fostering well-being and productivity. But one factor crucial to its success is that not every area is accessible to people. This ensures that nature can flourish unimpeded by human activity.”

Protecting water resources

Of course, Logistics Center West will also have an optimized irrigation system designed to ensure a healthy water environment while also protecting the local water system from flooding and contamination. On top of everything else, the rainwater that falls on the roof can be reused efficiently inside the building.

Various planting beds, small fruit trees and flowering shrubs have all been planned for the roof of Logistics Center West, which covers 30,753 m². In this way, Bestseller and Henning Larsen Architects want to attract local fauna and offer people a quiet place to retreat to.

Climate and well-being

Incidentally, this aesthetically pleasing design also fulfils another important purpose – the carefully created green space absorbs CO₂, filters air pollutants and lessens heat absorption. The garden area also offers a network of trees and green spaces – with shady seating areas and inviting places for outdoor gatherings.

As Henning Larsen Country Market Director Eva Ravnborg explains: “The design of Logistics Center West represents a fundamental change in the way we imagine a logistics centre should look.” She describes the project as being the result of a united client and consultancy team who were both firmly committed to creating a design that is visually impressive, carbon-efficient and has a positive impact on local biodiversity.

Natural wellness factor

Designing a workplace with natural surroundings brings together the interior and exterior elements and helps to create a pleasant environment. The timber rooms are flooded with natural light, injecting new energy and aiding concentration. The outside areas improve the microclimate and make it possible to spend time outdoors for more than two months longer – both in the spring and in the autumn. And the natural land surrounding the centre helps to cool it down in hot summers.

In designing Bestseller’s Logistic Center West, Henning Larsen Architects joined forces with Ramboll, Denc and Pelecon. For years, the Danish office has been involved in creating sustainable building projects that fit with both the client’s brief and the architectural context. Their clear preference for timber construction is demonstrated in their fascinating design for the urban “timber village” Faelledby and their designs for Stockholm Wood City, for example.

A new take on logistics

All of this ties in perfectly with Bestseller’s ambitions. This is because the family-run fashion company – whose range includes over 20 brands like Vero Moda and Only – is taking steps to make good on its promise to improve its sector’s reputation. Like now with the timber Logistic Center West, which – besides better conditions for producing and selling textile goods – will help to drive forward a more environmentally and people-friendly kind of logistics better suited to the future. Beginning in 2026, when Europe’s largest timber logistics centre is scheduled for completion.

Text: Elisabeth Schneyder
Translation: Rosemary Bridger-Lippe
Images: Henning Larsen