The DGNB Diamond award procedure
The DGNB Diamond stands for excellent design and building culture quality. The aim of the award is to make architectural quality visible as an essential component of sustainable construction and thus strengthen the long-term value and useful life of buildings.
As part of an independent award procedure, the DGNB assesses the architectural quality of building projects independently of traditional sustainability certification. The assessment principles were developed together with the Federal Chamber of Architects (BAK) and the Association of German Architects (BDA).
The DGNB Diamond is awarded to building projects that have already achieved at least one DGNB Gold or Platinum certification and are also characterized by exceptional design and building culture quality. In addition to the DGNB Diamond, DGNB recognition can also be awarded for particularly successful architectural quality.
The assessment is carried out by an independent commission for design quality as part of an on-site inspection. This personal inspection ensures that not only planning concepts but also the actual implementation and effect of the building are assessed.
DGNB Diamond Award | Successful projects with HOINKA

Projects:
- One Tower Frankfurt
- Rhine Main Halls
- Expansion of Vector IT Campus (HOINKA: Commissioning)
- Timber Pioneer (no DGNB Diamond Award, but special recognition)
Procedure and timing of the audit:
- Registration for the DGNB Diamond is possible from the start of the project.
- The on-site inspection takes place after completion and occupation of the building.
- In the case of proven DGNB Gold certification, the inspection can also take place before the certification process is completed.
- The assessment is based on clearly defined criteria for the design and architectural quality of buildings.
We offer:
Do you have a new build or refurbishment project with DGNB Gold or Platinum certification that focuses on architectural quality and building culture?
Then take the opportunity to register your project for the DGNB Diamond award procedure and have the design quality visibly recognized.
Evaluation criteria at a glance
Each project is viewed holistically. All criteria are evaluated from the aspect of Appropriateness, quality and timelessness evaluated. In particular, the following four topics are taken into account:
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Appropriateness and sustainability of the design: Among other things, construction, choice of materials, scale and the fit between architectural task and implementation are assessed.
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Context and integration: The focus here is on urban integration, interaction with the surroundings and the design and use of open spaces.
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Design and architectural expression: Proportions, composition, architectural clarity and the overall effect of the building are assessed.
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Quality of the floor plan: Functional aspects such as flexibility, orientation, visual relationships, room sequences and user-friendliness are included in the assessment.
Phone +49 711 62049-340
Email info@hoinka.com

