Jessica Stewart of My Modern Net writes:

IKEA is breaking new ground with its newest store in Austria. Located at Vienna’s Westbahnhof station, this seven-story building will be unlike any IKEA you’ve ever seen. Not only does it have a green facade and roof terrace, but there will be no parking spots created. This innovative concept is aimed at the urban shopper and is a nod to Vienna’s top-notch transport system.

IKEA is making Vienna a pioneer worldwide: at the Westbahnhof, a seven-storey, innovative, inviting furniture store with green facades and plenty of space for people will be built by 2021 – from appealing restaurants to the generally accessible, green roof terrace.

The unconventional design of the building was a joint effort between querkraft architekten and IKEA’s architects. The goal was the create an informal space that the entire community can enjoy. In fact, the green rooftop will be open to the public even outside of IKEA’s opening hours.

The outer shell of the building is designed like a shelf, with different zones for terraces, greenery, and practical measures like restrooms, elevators, and stairs. The 160 trees integrated into the outer shell will help with heating and cooling, keeping a balanced microclimate.

Read more: IKEA’s New Vienna Store Includes a Green Roof and No Parking Spaces