For the health insurance company BIG direkt gesund, new office space totalling around 7,300 m² was realised within the new build project Südtor at the Dortmund location. This relocation of the head office led to a nearly 60 percent reduction in the previously used area. At the same time, an economically efficient, sustainable and future-oriented use of the new office premises was established. The decision for this step was made in the context of the expiring lease agreement for the previous property in Dortmund city centre and the necessity to create a future-proof working environment for the approximately 650 employees.
The development of the new strategy was carried out in collaboration with pro m². Based on a joint vision and guideline development, as well as specific workshops with employees, a suitable space profile was created and the Dortmund real estate market was analysed in detail. The Südtor new build project proved to be the optimal solution. Jan Oelze, managing partner at pro m², commented that with this move, BIG direkt gesund has achieved an economically efficient and sustainable location solution. He added that this also sends a clear signal for the long-term strengthening and further development of the Dortmund location.
The primary goal of the project was to significantly increase the efficiency of office use while supporting the specific requirements of a health insurance company. In addition to economic factors, the micro and macro location, sustainability aspects, and the long-term usability of the building were considered central criteria. pro m² supported BIG direkt gesund throughout the entire lease and construction process as a user representative. The range of services included real estate strategy, workplace consulting, interior design, technical project management, and change management.
Markus Bäumer, Deputy Board Member of BIG direkt gesund, highlighted the importance of the project. He emphasised that with new working models and the option of home office, flexible and needs-based working environments have been created, which ensure a healthy atmosphere for employees and guarantee unrestricted customer service. The modern building is geared towards sustainability and reflects the commitment to taking responsibility for the environment and society. Bäumer noted that buildings that operate without fossil fuels not only serve climate protection but also represent a form of future-proofing. Health is always linked to social and ecological conditions.
An additional complexity arose from the fact that the tenancy concerns a critical infrastructure (KRITIS) location. This led to increased requirements for site selection, the security concept, and contract design. Parallel to this, it was necessary to ensure the economic viability of the project while maintaining high quality standards. The project took the opportunity to implement future-oriented working environments that promote flexible and collaborative work.
The decision for the Südtor new build project combines economic efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability in a comprehensive solution. This new space provides the foundation for a modern, flexible organisation and supports the long-term further development of the Dortmund location. BIG direkt gesund occupied the premises as planned in December 2025.
