Google’s high-tech campus
THE WORLD IS A COPPER GOOGLE. Inspired by the title of a documentary about the formula behind one of the most influential technology companies of our time, sheet metal specialist GAASS Florian GmbH reports on the craftsmanship and logistical demands involved in the new Google high-tech campus in the heart of Munich.
A unique architectural heritage
The historic Arnulfpost – known as the ‘Postpalast’ at Arnulfstrasse 62 – is one of Munich’s most distinctive listed building complexes. Built in 1926 as a parcel post office, the building was used from 2011 onwards as an exceptional venue for presentations, film premieres, concerts and other events. Architecturally, the complex is a prime example of the Bavarian ‘Postbauschule’ (1920-1934), which set new standards in engineering and design at the time.
Five international architectural practices
Five international architectural practices, more than 60 site managers and numerous service providers were involved in delivering the project. After Google acquired the Arnulfpost at the end of 2019, the design and concept phase followed in 2020 and 2021. Construction began in mid-2021, the structural work was completed in 2024, and the interior fit-out is scheduled for completion in 2026. GAASS spent almost two years carrying out extensive sheet metal work on the project.
A high-tech campus focused on IT security
In 2026, the site will become a modern Google high-tech campus with a focus on IT security. The redevelopment is designed to preserve the building’s historic heritage while creating contemporary spaces for work and interaction, with regular events, landscaped areas and publicly accessible spaces. Low-emission materials, an optimised carbon footprint and real-time monitoring of energy consumption will support resource-efficient operation over the long term.
The Thalmann double folder makes the difference
Google and the architects responsible for the project set exceptionally high standards for quality and precision. Against this background, Managing Director Florian Gaass decided to invest in the Thalmann TD double folder:
‘Our previous machine could no longer meet the required standards or produce some of the more complex profile geometries. Besides, the TD double folder had been on our wish list for some time, not least because of clear recommendations from industry colleagues. Today, it is the best machine in our workshop: fast, precise and powerful. Combined with the useful automation units and straightforward operation, it is also a real pleasure to work with.’
Around 55 tonnes of copper processed
Unexpectedly, sourcing around 55 tonnes of copper proved to be a particular challenge. The high-quality material had to be coordinated and procured through approximately 40 individual orders from different suppliers. The elaborate substructure for the tapered trapezoidal sheets consisted of around 70 tonnes of sheet steel in the form of HAT, C and Z profiles. Remarkably, the copper work itself accounted for only about 20% of the total labour, while around 80% went into planning and preparatory work.
The highest safety and logistics standards
The construction site operated under the highest safety and logistics standards. Numerous safety officers strictly monitored the work, and access was only permitted through three large entrance gates within fixed time slots allocated two days in advance. Soldering was prohibited throughout the site, and an automatic fire suppression system was in place. During the week, the GAASS team stayed in a comfortable hotel nearby:
‘Yes, the hotel costs were a small fortune,’ says Florian Gaass with a smile. ‘But there was no question about it: the distance between Grainet and Munich was simply too great. Ultimately, the well-being of our team is essential for a positive working atmosphere – and therefore for flawless results. It is as simple as that.’
Quality craftsmanship from Bavaria
GAASS Florian GmbH has worked in sheet metal, roofing and carpentry, as well as demanding façade and metalwork projects, since 1986. The company is based in Grainet in the south-eastern Bavarian Forest, around 20 kilometres from the Czech and Austrian borders and approximately 220 kilometres from central Munich. With a team of around 50 people, this respected specialist contractor has the expertise and resources needed to deliver even complex large-scale projects successfully:
‘Traditional craftsmanship combined with sophisticated design – that is what we stand for. We have extensive experience in delivering complex large-scale projects, solid technical expertise and high standards of quality. At the same time, we bring a keen eye for architecture and design. Projects such as the new Google campus, with its specific requirements, are therefore an ideal fit for us – exactly the kind of challenge we are made for,’ says Florian Gaass, Managing Director and master sheet metal worker.