REWE Green Farming

Civic Trust Awards Citation

The REWE Green Farming market represents a pioneering approach of blending the traditional marketplace ethos with modern concepts of freshness, local production, and environmental responsibility.

In the context of the last century’s disconnect from the natural world and the increasing demand for sustainable practices, this innovative market concept redefines the role of food stores. At its core, the REWE Green Farming market is a modular timber structure, serving as a market hall that pays homage to the roots of marketplaces. The adaptable design allows it to fit into various site typologies, fostering a connection between customers and locally grown, seasonal, and fresh produce. The structure is not just a place to shop but a visual celebration of food production, housing an aquaponic farm within the building and a modular greenhouse above. The architectural identity of the market is established through an iconic and visible timber structure, creating a humanscale shopping experience. The use of simple wood and screw connections not only facilitates ease of construction but also aligns with sustainable practices, steering away from highly engineered elements. Large glass façades bring natural light into the market, ensuring transparency in the food-making process and connecting customers with the surrounding landscape. 

The sustainability aspect goes beyond design aesthetics, extending into the operational and functional elements of the market. The aquaponic farm and hydroponic cycle reduce water consumption by 90%, showcasing an innovative approach to resource efficiency. The structural concept employs a hybrid modular system in wood and reinforced concrete, symbolising sustainable 21st-century timber building. The Wiesbaden market serves as the first prototype of this innovative concept. It introduces an assortment focused on freshness, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, regional and organic products. The glass butchery with a show kitchen emphasises the commitment to organic and humanely farmed meat. Local suppliers can showcase their products in specially designed market stalls, fostering community engagement and supporting regional businesses. 

The REWE Green Farming market is not just a shopping destination; it is a role model for the sector. The opening of the Wiesbaden store was met with excitement and has received a positive reception from the local community. It transforms the conventional big-shed supermarket into a human-scaled structure, providing a more pleasant shopping experience and contributing to a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for food retail.

Judges’ Comments: “The modular and sustainable supermarket architecture, coupled with the aquaponic rooftop farm, sets a new standard for the industry, aligning with the growing demand for responsible and community-oriented retail spaces.”