In Brabrand near Aarhus, Norrplan has designed a distinctive and future-proof distribution center for nemlig.com. The facility forms the foundation for the company’s expansion in Jutland and supports the growing sales of the online supermarket with a modern and efficient logistics structure.

The total development covers 37,500 m² and includes a 28,500 m² warehouse, of which 8,000 m² is dedicated to refrigerated and freezer storage, as well as approximately 9,000 m² of administration, canteen, and staff welfare facilities. The project has been planned with a focus on optimal flow lines, high operational reliability, and good working conditions for employees.

Facade with rhythm, landscape, and identity

The façade is designed with a deliberate rhythm in two green shades, giving the large building volume a human scale and a calm horizontal division. The green tones are carefully selected so the building blends naturally into the surrounding landscape in Brabrand and supports the character of the area.

At the same time, the color scheme acts as an architectural backdrop that highlights nemlig.com’s distinctive orange logo. The contrast between the green façade panels and the orange logo creates a clear identity and ensures strong visibility – without compromising the overall architectural expression.

Administration and staff facilities are integrated as a natural part of the volume, with a focus on daylight, views, and a healthy working environment. The interior layout supports both efficient operations and employee well-being.

Sustainability integrated from the start

Energy optimization has been a key parameter from the earliest design sketches. The cooling and freezing systems generate significant amounts of surplus heat, and the project includes a solution where up to 90% of this heat is reused to heat other areas of the building.

The white roofing membrane is also an active design choice. The roof surface reduces the formation of NOx particles and lowers heat absorption, helping reduce the building’s internal temperature and overall energy consumption.

Developed and delivered in record time

The project was developed during a period when nemlig.com experienced significant growth in connection with COVID-19. During the pandemic, demand for online groceries increased substantially, creating an urgent need for additional capacity in Jutland.

Norrplan developed the project in close collaboration with the design-build contractor and the client, with a shared ambition to deliver quickly without compromising quality. The design process and project development ran in parallel with the start of construction on site.

Norrplan is accustomed to working at high speed when time is a critical factor for the client’s business. The project in Brabrand demonstrates how efficient design processes, clear decision-making, and close collaboration can transform growth and operational needs into realized architecture in record time.

As a result, only nine months passed from the moment Norrplan first put pencil to paper until the completed facility was ready.