In the north of Düsseldorf, a new hotel complex with office space is taking shape. Its striking façade will soon define the northern gateway to the state capital. For the installation of the heating system, our stainless-steel NiroTherm® piping system is being used.

The project developer is Turkish-based Peker Holding, which is realising an RKW Architektur+ design on a plot of around 1.2 hectares. The elongated, narrow shape of the site posed a particular challenge. This was resolved architecturally through a distinctive façade design, varying building heights, and recessed or projecting sections. The “Northgate” project has a total budget of approximately €60 million. Of the roughly 16,000 m² of building area, around 15% will be office space for Peker Holding’s own use – marking their first direct location in the German market.

The larger portion will be occupied by the “the niu Hub” hotel. Its 427 units comprise standard hotel rooms as well as mini-apartments with kitchenettes for longer stays in the “boarding house” section. The family-owned NOVUM Hospitality group will lease the hotel for 25 years, adding another location to its portfolio of properties in 17 German cities. Across Europe, the group operates 150 hotels in the 3- and 4-star segment at 60 locations.

Building Services Overview

By September 2021, the technical equipment and installations were scheduled for completion, followed by interior works with the goal of opening in spring 2022. Most rooms already have heating/cooling units installed, some of which are connected. All pipework is routed within a suspended ceiling, leaving the technology completely hidden except for two inspection openings.

The units are connected using the NiroTherm® stainless-steel piping system. Starting from DN 54 risers, two rooms are supplied per riser shaft, which also accommodates other utility lines. This shaft is positioned next to the room entrance and will later be enclosed, housing water and waste-water connections for the kitchenette and bathroom.

Piping for Heating Applications

NiroTherm® is a piping system in accordance with DIN EN 10312, manufactured from stainless steel 1.4301. The press fittings are equipped with black EPDM seals, making the system highly corrosion-resistant and ideal for heating installations.

A key advantage over traditional materials like carbon steel is stainless steel’s superior resistance to external corrosion. For example, when exposed to condensate from cooling systems or screed, no additional plastic sheathing or double protective coating (AGI Q 151) is required. This significantly reduces installation time and improves cost efficiency.

NiroTherm® also fully meets fire protection requirements. Its non-combustible material can be used without restriction in shafts and wall or floor penetrations between fire compartments, in accordance with MBO/MLAR. Combined with appropriate fire insulation and collars (e.g., Conlit), the result is a safe, reliable piping system.

The series is available in dimensions from 15 mm to 168.3 mm. For this project, sizes from 22 to 28 mm and up to 54 mm for larger risers and headers were used. Newly introduced XXL sizes – 139.7 mm (DN 125) and 168.3 mm (DN 150) – allow for easy installation of large risers in high-rise buildings, avoiding warranty-critical mixed installations.

Operating pressure is up to 16 bar, with an operating temperature range of -30 to +120 °C (the industrial version, Series 98000 NiroTherm® Industry, is available for up to 160 °C). Fittings are marked with red lettering, the NiroTherm® name, the diameter, and a red dot. In addition to heating, the system can be used for cooling, compressed air, and technical or inert gases.

Safe and Efficient Installation

Another important feature is the combipress function (applicable to all SANHA metallic fitting systems), which includes tool compatibility, push & stay, and leak-before-press technology. For a project of this scale, reliable and efficient installation is key. The system can be pressed up to 54 mm using existing press tools with original SA, V, or M profile jaws or slings.

This minimises errors and prevents costly tool mix-ups on site. The push & stay function keeps fittings in place during positioning, even overhead or in tight spaces. The leak-before-press feature ensures any unpressed joints are easily identified during pressure testing. Pressing technology also eliminates any fire risk during installation.

Conclusion

High-quality material and secure installation – these are the strengths of the NiroTherm® series for heating applications. These benefits are now being realised in the building services of the new “the niu Hub” hotel in Düsseldorf. Stainless-steel pipes and fittings ensure a durable installation, while the combipress function supports project progress. As a result, the ambitious construction schedule is well within reach.