Sustainable urban development project in Offenbach's port, Rockywood, is honored with the Brownfield Award
In the heart of Offenbach, Germany, the Rockywood project stands as a testament to modern, urban business development and sustainable urban living. This former industrial site, now transformed into a bustling hub, has been recognised for over 20 years of successful sustainable urban development.
The Rockywood project, a collaborative effort between Mainviertel Offenbach GmbH & Co. KG, a subsidiary of the municipal utilities, and the city of Offenbach, is a shining example of ecologically and socially sustainable urban development. It houses the headquarters of three distinguished companies: Topeople, TMS, and the IMPAG Group, an international provider of raw materials for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry.
The project's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its corporate residents. The integration of the boxing club Nordend e.V., a regional violence prevention project, into the Rockywood project on a rent-free basis for the next 20 years, is a testament to its dedication to social sustainability.
The Rockywood project's emphasis on integration and circular economy is evident in its design and operations. The construction of the Rockywood complex was realised by Primus development GmbH in wooden modular construction, using only replanted wood. This approach not only promotes sustainability but also shortens transport routes and increases the recycling rate, key aspects of the project's circular economy.
The project's focus on sustainability has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, the Rockywood project was awarded the Brownfield Award in the sustainability category, considered the most significant nationwide for the revitalization of formerly industrially used areas. Out of 14 projects that applied, Rockywood stood out as a model project for modern, urban business quarters, complementing the already completed residential construction in the Offenbach harbor.
The CIRCLE hub of the Frankfurt waste disposal company Blasius Schuster also moved to Rockywood, creating a network of over 40 companies working on sustainable solutions in the construction industry. This move further solidifies Rockywood's position as a hub for sustainable businesses.
Mayor Schwenke praised the Rockywood project, stating that it is a perfect fit for Offenbach's economic location strategy, being the home of three company headquarters. The project continues to attract companies, with more headquarters now located within it.
The Rockywood project, with its commitment to sustainability, integration, and circular economy, is a shining example of successful urban development in Offenbach, Germany. It serves as a model for other cities seeking to create sustainable, modern business quarters while promoting social and environmental responsibility.
- The Rockywood project, beyond housing corporate residents, also actively promotes environmental science by constructing its complex using wooden modular construction with replanted wood, thereby embracing sustainable living and contributing to the climate-change fight.
- In the domain of environmental-science and lifestyle, the Rockywood project further extends its influence by accommodating the CIRCLE hub of the Frankfurt waste disposal company, fostering a network of companies working on sustainable solutions in the home-and-garden and construction industry.
- Recognizing the Rockywood project's significance in environmental-science and social sustainability, other cities may find its approach as a guide to develop modern, urban business quarters that emphasize integration, circular economy, and overall sustainable urban living, following the example set by Offenbach, Germany.
