For over 100 years, Weleda has been synonymous with holistic natural cosmetics and anthroposophic medicines, and is guided by a clear commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. With the Cradle Campus, the company aims to redefine its logistics: as an integral part of a sustainable, resource-efficient infrastructure.
The new building, designed by Michelgroup architects, reflects Weleda’s long-term sustainability strategy. The campus is regarded as a flagship project for circular construction and has already received several awards, including the polis AWARD 2024 in the ‘Ecological Reality’ category and the Lehmbau Innovation Prize from the State of Baden-Württemberg. This is testament to its relevance beyond the industry.
The Cradle Campus relies entirely on renewable and recycled materials with a positive ecological footprint. The aim was to achieve minimal energy consumption, for example through roof surfaces for generating renewable energy. The construction, choice of materials and building services are consistently geared towards resource conservation and longevity. Measuring 82 × 38 metres, the central warehouse is the largest contiguous rammed earth building in Germany and demonstrates how effective natural materials can be on an industrial scale.
“The decision to choose Lightnet was based on design, functional and sustainability considerations – and because the partner’s values align with ours,” says Daniela Trah, Head of Logistic Projects and Site Management at Weleda.
The interiors reflect the sustainable values of the campus. Thanks to the abundance of wood, muted colours and clear proportions, staff experience a calm, almost homely working environment that tangibly caters to their needs. Lightnet luminaires have been installed throughout the interior design: in the entrance area, light lines from the Liquid Line series follow the ceiling structure, whilst luminaires from the Basic series illuminate meeting zones, communal areas and corridors. With their circular, minimalist form, they showcase the spaces characterised by wood, textiles and exposed concrete. Through their even, glare-free light distribution, they stabilise the ambient brightness, support focused work and blend so naturally into the architecture that they are perceived less as luminaires and more as part of the room itself.
