Since its foundation 1972 the architectural practice ‘Herzog + Partner’ has been committing itself to a development and cultivation of the modern age. The task is to exercise social responsibility and to participate actively in the scientific and technological progress as well as to integrate aspects relevant for the environment in multiple ways – specially the possibilities of solar energy. New concepts are developed in interaction with research institutions and institutions from universities, e.g. the ‘Fraunhofergesellschaft’ (Fraunhofer Association), the ‘Technical University of Munich’ (TUM), ‘Centre for applied Energy Research of Bavaria’ (Zentrum für angewandte Energieforschung Bayern e.V.). Urban planning pilot projects, pioneering buildings, prototypes of building systems and components are created as a result of these knowledge-based design task. The realisation is usually carried out with local partners.