BREEAM rating of Outstanding for intu Xanadú shopping centre in Madrid

Inaugurated in 2003, intu Xanadú was developed to become Madrid’s largest shopping and leisure destination, bringing together retail, dining, and entertainment under one roof. Over the years, it has expanded its offer and facilities to attract millions of visitors annually. Today, it stands as a landmark destination in Spain’s retail landscape, continuously evolving to meet modern consumer and sustainability demands.

The success of this large-scale project depended on close collaboration among a diverse group of stakeholders. A key challenge was coordinating the Facility Management team, suppliers, and key personnel to implement new climate risk procedures aligned with the European Taxonomy. Achieving seamless cooperation between the centre’s management, tenants, and visitors required careful planning and communication.

Integrating input from a multidisciplinary team of specialists covering lighting, acoustics, flood risk, natural hazards, flexible architecture, energy efficiency, climate resilience, building inspection, ecology, and biodiversity also presented complexity. Similarly, showcasing and validating the centre’s long-standing biodiversity initiatives proved difficult without a formal structure.

Additional challenges included the absence of structured environmental comfort assessments, limited use of occupant feedback, and inconsistent operational data. Environmental pressures such as water scarcity in Spain further underscored the need for efficiency. Finally, aligning diverse stakeholders behind the BREEAM certification required overcoming differing priorities and levels of technical understanding.

The project addressed these challenges through a collaborative approach guided by the BREEAM framework, which provided a clear structure for coordination and performance improvement. Expert studies on flood risk and natural hazards identified key vulnerabilities, forming the basis for new resilience strategies and emergency plans. As a result, the centre is now equipped to act as a climate refuge during heatwaves, is transitioning to renewable energy, and can report robust sustainability data to stakeholders.

BREEAM also enabled the formal recognition of the centre’s existing biodiversity efforts, such as the lagoon habitat with birdhouses and bat roosts, and an employee programme where trees are named after staff. These initiatives demonstrate a sustained commitment to ecological enhancement.

To improve environmental comfort, the BREEAM In-Use scheme guided assessments of thermal, acoustic, and lighting conditions, while the introduction of occupant surveys and an updated User Guide established a strong feedback loop and improved user satisfaction.

A new process for third-party analysis of survey results ensures that occupant feedback drives measurable improvements. Alongside this, a robust data management system now provides accurate tracking of waste and performance metrics, supporting data-driven decision-making.

To tackle water scarcity, the centre implemented an integrated water efficiency strategy using greywater and condensation recycling, low-consumption fixtures, and optimised flow rates. A formal water strategy now ensures ongoing efficiency and reduced dependence on municipal supplies.

Finally, an inclusive and transparent stakeholder engagement process ensured alignment throughout the BREEAM certification journey. Open communication, data-driven monitoring, and shared ownership not only secured a high rating but also strengthened the centre’s environmental, social, and economic value.

Benefits BREEAM has been integral to intu Xanadú’s operations since its first certification and continues to be central to its sustainability strategy. Achieving “Outstanding” ratings for both the asset and its management demonstrates a deep commitment to environmental performance, resource efficiency, and continuous improvement. The framework aligns the centre with global sustainability objectives, ensuring it remains competitive, resilient, and environmentally responsible.

The certification delivers clear advantages for intu Xanadú’s shopping centre operations. It enhances the property’s reputation as a benchmark for sustainable retail destinations, attracting high-quality tenants and increasing footfall by offering a healthier, more comfortable environment for visitors. The operational efficiencies achieved through BREEAM—such as lower energy and water consumption, improved waste management, and reduced maintenance costs—directly contribute to more efficient day-to-day management and stronger long-term financial performance.

For property owners and investors, BREEAM translates into higher asset value, reduced operational risk, and greater confidence in the centre’s long-term viability. For managers, the methodology provides a structured approach to identifying improvements and achieving consistent performance gains. The requirement for regular recertification embeds a culture of continuous enhancement across all aspects of the centre’s operation.

Occupants and retail tenants benefit from improved indoor air quality, access to natural light, and lower utility costs, all of which support well-being and productivity. Retailers also gain from association with a leading sustainable shopping destination, enhancing their brand image and demonstrating a shared commitment to sustainability.

Beyond these operational and social gains, BREEAM delivers measurable financial benefits. Reduced consumption, better recycling performance, an enhanced reputation, and a more efficient asset all contribute to strong economic value. Alignment with the EU Taxonomy further strengthens intu Xanadú’s market position, providing access to favourable financial conditions and reinforcing its leadership in sustainable retail management.