immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: immoNews

  • Strong wood presence at the ‘Swiss Arc Award’ 2025

    Strong wood presence at the ‘Swiss Arc Award’ 2025

    On October 30, the jury honored the best buildings of the year from over 400 submissions. The award, presented at Trafo Baden in front of over 500 guests from architecture and the construction industry, underlines the creative diversity and technical maturity of Swiss planning culture. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Kaschka Knapkiewicz and Axel Fickert, whose work has had a decisive influence on local architecture for decades.

    Sustainability and functionality
    The Hortus office building in Allschwil by Herzog & de Meuron won in the “Work, Production & Infrastructure” category thanks to its systematic climate protection and material intelligence. The new University Children’s Hospital Zurich, the winning project in the “Education & Health” category, was also designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Its horizontal structure creates bright, open pathways and a new typology of hospital building that combines functionality with humanity.

    Wood as a design leitmotif
    The Guggach residential and commercial development in Zurich by Donet Schäfer Reimer Architekten won in the “Residential” category. Climate-optimized concrete and timber construction elements demonstrate how sustainable building materials can interact constructively and aesthetically. Andreas Fuhrimann and Gabrielle Hächler were awarded the first prize for interior design for their sensitive conversion of a terraced house in Gockhausen. Wood permeates surfaces, furniture and construction as a connecting element and emotional carrier of spatial quality.

    Audience award for multi-purpose building in Lavaux
    The multi-purpose building in Forel by Samir Alaoui Architectes won the audience award. The stacking of industrial and residential use creates an architectural unit with a high degree of spatial intelligence. Here too, the timber construction underlines the fact that sustainable construction and architectural expressiveness are not mutually exclusive.

    The Swiss Arc Award 2025 confirms that wood is not just a building material, but an expression of a new culture of responsibility in the Swiss construction industry.

  • New service facility strengthens the Weinfelden railway location

    New service facility strengthens the Weinfelden railway location

    SBB and its Thurgau subsidiary Thurbo AG, based in Kreuzlingen, are to open the new service facility in Weinfelden on 1 November, according to a press release. The existing Thurbo fleet will be serviced here and the new fleet of 329 Flirt Evo trains will be put into operation and serviced. The first new trains are due to be introduced in 2026 and will also be used by SBB and its subsidiary RegionAlps, based in Martigny VS. The proximity to the Bussnang and Erlen sites of the train manufacturer Stadler enables efficient maintenance, training and introduction.

    Thurbo has invested CHF 18.4 million in the facility. It was built in timber construction and extended by 30 to 100 metres. It also houses a photovoltaic system whose 866 modules will generate almost 400 megawatt hours of electricity per year. Up to 30 employees will work here in future.

    The facility will be opened on 1 November with an open day. The first train of the new Flirt Evo fleet will also be christened at the event.

  • New shares to finance construction projects and acquisitions

    New shares to finance construction projects and acquisitions

    Zurich Invest Ltd is increasing the resources for the ZIF Real Estate Direct Switzerland fund. The fund management company, which belongs to Zurich Insurance Company Ltd, announced in a press release that around 100 million Swiss francs will be raised between 10 and 21 November. It intends to use the funds to finance ongoing construction projects and for selective acquisitions.

    Shareholders have the right to acquire one new share for every ten existing shares. A maximum of 960,411 new shares are to be issued at an issue price of 112.16 Swiss francs. The new units are scheduled to be paid out on 28 November 2025.

    The ZIF Real Estate Direct Switzerland fund currently comprises 60 properties with a total market value of CHF 1.5 billion. Residential properties, mainly in the Zurich and Lake Geneva regions, account for 86 per cent. Launched at the end of 2018, the fund was listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange in 2023.

  • Energy supplier plans move to former bank premises

    Energy supplier plans move to former bank premises

    AEW will not be relocating its new headquarters to the Obere Vorstadt site as previously planned. According to the energy supplier, the test planning launched in May 2024 showed that the possible site development was not sufficiently in line with AEW’s development goals.

    The search for a new location had become necessary because the current headquarters at Industriestrasse 20 in the Aeschbachquartier in Aarau does not fulfil AEW’s short to medium-term capacity and space requirements. For this reason, the rental contract, which expires in mid-2027, will not be extended.

    AEW has now found a suitable neighbourhood at Bahnhofstrasse 49: the premises of the former Credit Suisse. According to the information provided, they offer the space that AEW needs in the long term.

    As the Canton of Aargau is currently renting “significant space” in the Obere Vorstadt area for the High Court and judicial management, AEW intends to “initially” enter into negotiations with the canton regarding the sale of the entire Obere Vorstadt area. The move to Bahnhofstrasse is planned for 2027.

  • Swiss solar technology sets new standards for aesthetics and performance

    Swiss solar technology sets new standards for aesthetics and performance

    Megasol Energie AG, Switzerland’s leading manufacturer of solar panels for roofs and façades, aims to set new standards for glare-reduced, high-performance and aesthetic solar technology with its new M450 solar module, according to a press release.

    The 450-watt peak M450 is the first solar module from Megasol to be equipped with ZRM surface technology, which significantly reduces mirror-like reflections thanks to micro-structured glass, special surface treatment and matt optics. The low luminance of the M450, which varies between 3000 and 9000 candela per square metre (cd/m2 – luminance) depending on the angle of incidence of the sun, remains well below international limits of around 20,000 cd/m2, which are prescribed in the vicinity of airports.

    With no disturbing glare for pilots, drivers or residents, the module is therefore suitable for use in sensitive areas such as airports or residential neighbourhoods. According to the manufacturer, the solar module also has an above-average product and performance guarantee of 30 years and is certified with hail resistance 5 (HW 5), currently the highest value available in the industry. The M450 module is now available for delivery.

    Megasol is a manufacturer of solar modules and system solutions for building-integrated photovoltaics. With its own production facilities in Switzerland and an international presence, Megasol develops solar roof and façade systems.

  • Swiss Logistics celebrates the opening of Campus Zofingen

    Swiss Logistics celebrates the opening of Campus Zofingen

    The Swiss Association for Vocational Training in Logistics announces the grand opening of its Swiss Logistics Campus in Zofingen. The new training centre was officially inaugurated on 25 October with an open day. “It was a day full of exciting experiences, inspiring encounters and warm conversations,” writes Swiss Logistics in a press release on the opening.

    The association wants its new campus to be a “place of learning, development and encounters”. The training centre combines basic and advanced training as well as higher vocational training under one roof. Swiss Logistics is focussing on modern forms of learning and flexible spaces when providing training. The association’s programme is geared towards the future requirements of the industry.

  • A new research centre strengthens the Basel site.

    A new research centre strengthens the Basel site.

    Roche is embarking on the construction of a new 15-storey research and development centre at its headquarters in Basel. The foundation stone for the centre, which is specifically designed for the early phases of drug development, was laid on 29 October, the global pharmaceutical company announced in a press release. In Building 12, which will cost around 500 million Swiss francs, Roche intends to consolidate functions of the research and development department that are currently spread across the site. Work on the 72-metre-high building is due to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2029.

    “Building 12 is an essential part of our long-term vision for the Basel site,” said Jürg Erismann, Site Head Roche Basel/Kaiseraugst, in the press release. “The investment of 500 million Swiss francs is a clear commitment to Basel and underlines Roche’s long-term commitment to the research location and to Switzerland.” According to the press release, Roche has invested around 8 billion francs in its Swiss sites since 2015. A further 33 billion francs have been invested in research and development in Switzerland.

  • New logistics centre secures pharmaceutical supply in Switzerland

    New logistics centre secures pharmaceutical supply in Switzerland

    Spirig HealthCare AG has opened a new logistics centre in Wangen an der Aare, the Egerkingen-based pharmaceutical company specialising in generics announced in a press release. The 2600 square metre facility houses over 2000 picking stations as well as refrigerated and special warehouses. The amount of the investment, which has already created eight new jobs, is not disclosed in the press release.

    Spirig HealthCare intends to use the new logistics centre to increase its own storage capacities and make distribution more flexible. If necessary, medicines can be delivered to any location in Switzerland within a few hours using the company’s own fleet, the company writes.

    “Providing a reliable basic supply of important medicines in Switzerland is our core mission,” said Hans-Peter Borger, General Manager of Spirig HealthCare, in the press release. “With targeted investments in our own storage capacities, we are ensuring that we can fulfil this requirement. The new logistics centre stands for flexibility, speed and sustainable distribution – and is our clear commitment to security of supply.”

  • New training programme for professional location management

    New training programme for professional location management

    The University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland(FHNW) is offering a further education programme in the field of location management in collaboration with the Standort Schweiz network. According to a press release, the course is the first CAS in the field of location promotion in Switzerland. It is being organised by the FHNW for the second time, with the course starting on 26 March 2026 at the Brugg-Windisch campus.

    The course comprises the modules location analysis and location marketing, business promotion and cluster management, location development, innovation, change management and communication. Participants are familiarised with the local characteristics of locations and the needs of the companies living or based there. As economic, marketing and communication experts, location managers can design development concepts for locations and represent and implement these in practice with authorities and in politics, according to the FHNW.

    The certification course (CAS) comprises 15 seminar days spread over two semesters. The course fee is CHF 600 per day. Members of the Swiss Business Location Network receive a 10 per cent discount.

  • DACH region creates platform for energy innovation in Europe

    DACH region creates platform for energy innovation in Europe

    Universities, start-up ecosystems and energy companies from Germany, Austria and Switzerland have set up a European platform for energy innovation. One top university and one energy company from each country will be represented at the Energy Launchpad, the UnternehmerTUM start-up centre from Garching near Munich, which is part of the platform, announced in a press release.

    Switzerland is represented by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich and Energie 360° from Zurich. The Vienna University of Technology and VERBUND AG are from Austria, while the Technical University of Munich and EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG are from Germany.

    The platform, which is designed as an open network, aims to promote European technologies and start-ups. Next year, the focus will be on artificial intelligence and quantum computing. “With the Energy Launchpad, we are creating space for implementation strength in Europe,” Helmut Schönenberger, founder and CEO of UnternehmerTUM, is quoted as saying in the press release. “Research, industry and start-ups are bringing technologies into application more quickly here – openly, across borders and with a clear focus on impact.” This creates “resilience in the energy system and technological sovereignty for Europe”, says Schönenberger.

    The project was launched on 24 October at a kick-off event in Vienna. From here, the Energy Launchpad will now be travelling through the DACH region. The next stop will be at the Energy Week @ ETH in Zurich on 11 November.

  • Service business supports sales growth in a challenging market environment

    Service business supports sales growth in a challenging market environment

    The Schindler Group generated global sales totalling 8.16 billion Swiss francs in the first nine months of 2025, the Ebikon-based group of companies specialising in lifts, escalators and passenger conveyor belts announced in a press release. Year-on-year, this corresponds to growth of 0.8 per cent in local currencies. In the same period, order intake increased by 3.8 per cent in local currencies to 8.52 billion Swiss francs.

    Both Schindler’s order intake and sales were supported by the Group’s modernisation and service business in the reporting period. By contrast, demand and sales in the new installations business were weaker than in the previous year. “We have driven growth and strengthened our competitiveness with standardised modernisation solutions”, Schindler CEO Paolo Compagna is quoted as saying in the press release.

    At CHF 1.02 billion, operating profit at EBIT level was CHF 77 million higher than the previous year’s figure. Net profit totalled 796 million Swiss francs, compared to 748 million Swiss francs in the same period of the previous year. The EBIT margin increased by 1.2 percentage points to 12.5 per cent. Schindler is raising its EBIT margin target for the year as a whole by 0.5 percentage points to 12.5 per cent. The medium-term target for the margin remains at 13 per cent.

    In the same press release, Schindler also communicates its latest commitment to sustainability. “In line with our commitment to the decarbonisation of cities, we now offer a lift made of low-emission steel that supports our customers in achieving their emission reduction targets,” explains Compagna.

  • immoMedia achieves new record figures

    immoMedia achieves new record figures

    The immoNewsletter has been published every Tuesday for several years and has become firmly established. Now in its 200th issue, it has over 49,000 subscribers with a stable open rate of around 30 percent and remains a fixed source of information for specialists and managers from the real estate industry and location promotion.

    The immo!nvest.ch platform also recorded a significant increase. Over 65,000 page views, more than 56,000 sessions and over 283,000 events in the last 30 days demonstrate a sharp increase in usage and positioning as a central industry platform.

    Dynamism with new formats
    With the new immoMember program, companies, start-ups, institutions and location promotions are increasingly using membership as a strategic tool for visibility and networking. immoMedia is attempting to establish itself as a hub for a growing industry community.

    The job portal immobilienJobs.ch is continuously expanding its reach. In future, it will also be available in French and English. A step towards more diversity and a greater national presence. Published advertisements benefit from broad multiple distribution across all channels of the network.

    Continuous expansion of the ecosystem
    The immoMedia media family now includes:

    • Immo!nvest magazine with five issues per year, trilingual, over 6,000 subscribers
    • Immo!nvest.ch with up to 20 news items per week
    • ImmoTable specialist events with 100-150 participants
    • ImmoTermine event platform with up to 200 current events

    The 200 immoNewsletters stand for consistency, trust and growth. The development of all platforms shows that immoMedia is one of the influential information hubs of the Swiss real estate and location promotion network and is focusing on further growth in terms of reach, networking and multilingualism.

    Many thanks to all the readers who have been reading us for years and making this possible.

  • Cities warn against technocratic transport policy

    Cities warn against technocratic transport policy

    The Swiss Association of Cities recognizes the attempt to present coordinated planning following the political turbulence surrounding the freeway expansion and the financial bottlenecks for the railroads. At the same time, it criticizes the narrow circle of those involved. Although cities and municipalities were represented in the support group, they were not involved enough in the content of the planning, even though they directly bear the consequences of infrastructure decisions.

    The results are surprising. In the view of many cities, the postponement of important public transport projects in Basel and the deprioritization of the Bern East bypass contradict spatial planning priorities. In some cases, the logic of short-term capacity expansions overrides the long-term principles of sustainable development.

    Paradigm shift required
    A key point of the ETH analysis, namely that new infrastructure alone hardly brings any additional benefits, has so far been largely ignored in the public debate. The intelligent use of existing systems through digitalization, operational optimization and multimodal linking is crucial.

    For the association of cities, this results in a clear mandate for action. A transport policy of the future must place greater emphasis on steering and pricing instruments such as mobility pricing, incentive systems for efficient use and consistent cost transparency. “Traffic 45” provides little basis for this.

    Target vision instead of staged thinking
    The association warns that political decisions should not be based solely on the ETH report. Instead, the discussion about mobility and space 2050 should be conducted on a broad, interdisciplinary basis. This should involve the cantons, cities, municipalities and the scientific community. This is the only way to prevent existing hierarchies between road and rail projects from becoming entrenched.

    Financing with open flanks
    The report also outlines an area of tension in financial terms. The rail infrastructure fund is not sufficient for the planned expansions. The Association of Cities welcomes the variant with an additional CHF 24 billion, but warns against cost-cutting measures in the BIF and NAF. Without reliable funding, there is a risk of a strategic standstill in rail expansion.

    Broad debate instead of fast-track procedure
    The consultation draft by January 2026 envisaged by Federal Councillor Rösti is considered too ambitious by the cities. It is hardly realistic to seriously involve the affected agglomerations within a few weeks.

    The “Transport 45” report can be seen as a milestone for national infrastructure planning, but only if it is followed by an open, scientifically sound debate on mobility, space and climate targets that is anchored in the local community.

  • Sustainability firmly anchored, dialog stagnates

    Sustainability firmly anchored, dialog stagnates

    In 2025, the proportion of sustainability criteria in public procurement rose to 47.6%. An increase of 136 percent compared to the previous year. This means that the focus is clearly shifting away from purely price-oriented evaluations towards qualitative, life cycle-related approaches.

    At the same time, other qualitative criteria stagnated at 53.1 percent. The proportion of dialog procedures (1.1%) and approved variants (12.2%) has almost halved compared to 2024. This development points to a trend towards simplification in the process, but also to growing uncertainty among many procurement bodies when dealing with open, creative formats.

    New perspective on cultural change
    For the first time, the report sheds light on the “drivers of cultural change”. The new evaluation measures which indicators have increased the most since the revision of procurement law at federal and cantonal level, weighted according to model quality and number of observations. A focus on reliable data should show where sustainable change is actually measurable.

    The federal government and Basel-Stadt are leading the way
    The federal government is proving to be particularly dynamic. At the end of the second quarter of 2025, it achieved 46 model quality points, with top scores for quality, sustainability and service plausibility. The Confederation is followed by Basel-Stadt (34 points), which has made above-average progress despite implementing the reform later. The increase in variants contrary to the national downward trend is remarkable.

    Fewer indicators, more focus
    The current report has also been methodologically streamlined. Instead of ten, it now comprises seven indicators. Innovation and price reliability are no longer included due to a lack of reliable data, and project and ideas competitions are assessed together. The focus is therefore clearly on those factors that actually support cultural change. Sustainability, quality and transparency.

    Trend towards consolidation instead of opening up
    The latest results point to a phase of consolidation. Sustainability has become established, but the dialogic aspect of the new procurement law is only being used hesitantly. While individual regional authorities such as Basel-Stadt are experimenting in a targeted manner, a reversion to traditional patterns is evident at national level.

    This means that the sector is at a point where the reform is now being implemented in depth. A genuine change in culture will only fully unfold when dialog, diversity of variants and qualitative evaluation are understood as integral components of strategic procurement.

  • HEV real estate survey 2025

    HEV real estate survey 2025

    According to the survey of 432 real estate professionals, interest in property is increasing in almost all market segments. Single-family homes in particular are seeing an increase in demand, which is already above the 2024 level. Condominiums and apartment buildings also remain in demand, while the number of available properties is decreasing.

    The imbalance between supply and demand is leading to a relative shortage, the impact of which varies from region to region. This is most pronounced in densely populated central cantons and growth regions.

    Building land and new construction as bottlenecks
    The high demand for building land illustrates the growing pressure on future construction activity. Over half of those surveyed reported increasing interest in plots of land, but in most regions there is a lack of sufficient building land ready for planning.

    At the same time, construction activity remains too weak to even come close to meeting demand. High construction costs, lengthy approval procedures and a lack of land are dampening momentum. This is structurally exacerbating the supply shortage. A phenomenon that has been apparent for years.

    Price pressure continues
    Three quarters of those surveyed expect prices for residential property to continue to rise in the coming year. The combination of low new construction activity, persistently high demand and political and regulatory hurdles is creating an environment in which price adjustments are becoming the norm. For many buyer households, owning a home is increasingly becoming a math problem, especially as interest rate trends are placing an additional burden on financing.

    Structural stress test for the middle class
    Restricted access to home ownership has a long-term impact on the social structure. For decades, home ownership has been a central pillar of wealth accumulation and retirement provision in Switzerland. If this access is systematically made more difficult, the financial prospects of broad sections of the population will shift, with potential effects on consumer behavior, choice of location and family planning.

    Political and planning levers
    HEV Switzerland is therefore calling for clear political steps to break through the structural delay. Simpler approval procedures, shorter planning periods, less bureaucracy and effective measures against abusive objections. New housing supply can only be created if the regulatory framework is reliable and investment-friendly.

    A market at a turning point
    The survey makes it clear that the real estate market is at a crucial point in 2025. While demand remains robust and confidence in home ownership is unbroken, the structural shortage is jeopardizing the balance of the system. Without a correction, the price spiral threatens to become entrenched, with consequences for entire generations of prospective buyers.

    The coming years will show whether politicians, planners and market players can reverse the trend or whether the bottleneck will become the new normal in the Swiss real estate market.

  • Roche continues to invest in the future of research in Basel

    Roche continues to invest in the future of research in Basel

    Building 12 will be completed by 2029 and will provide space for around 450 researchers. It will act as a link between early research and clinical development, enabling new active ingredients to be applied more efficiently. The flexible space concept and state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure promote interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation.

    A commitment to Switzerland
    Roche has already invested around eight billion Swiss francs in the expansion of its Swiss sites since 2015. Building 12 will extend the Basel innovation axis and further consolidate Switzerland’s position as a leading research location within the Group. According to site manager Jürg Erismann, the building is a “clear commitment to Basel and to Swiss research expertise”.

    Architecture and dimensions
    The 72-metre-high Building 12, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, will unite previously dispersed research areas under one roof. Laboratories and open work zones for a new generation of drug development will be created on 32,200 square meters. Completion is planned for the end of 2029.

    Strategic importance
    With the combination of science, technology and architecture, Roche is focusing on accelerating development processes and sustainably strengthening the site. Of the more than 40 billion Swiss francs invested across the Group in the last ten years, around a quarter has been invested in Switzerland. A clear signal of the continued innovative strength of the Basel campus.

  • Location search for the ETH Swiss GeoLab

    Location search for the ETH Swiss GeoLab

    The ETH Swiss GeoLab is to become an international center for earth observation and data analysis over the next ten years. This will create a place in Lucerne where data from space, the air and the ground will flow together. With the help of artificial intelligence and high-performance computers, forecasts and analyses of natural hazards, climate and agricultural developments will be made possible. ETH Professor Thomas Zurbuchen and ETH Professor Verena Griess will lead the project strategically, while Felix Seidel Caprez will take over the operational management of the center.

    Site selection with clear criteria
    The requirements profile for the site was defined by ETH Zurich and made public. It attaches great importance to optimal conditions for research, cooperation and innovation. A location with modern infrastructure, proximity to universities, companies and authorities is sought. Proposals submitted will be evaluated in the first quarter of 2026.

    Networking and concrete perspectives
    Networking with Lucerne’s education and research landscape is already underway before the location decision is made. Workshops between ETH, regional companies and administrative partners are intended to identify synergies and initiate joint projects.
    “This investment in knowledge and technology is a great opportunity for the canton,” says Cantonal Councillor Fabian Peter, who sees the project as a milestone for Lucerne as a location for innovation.

    Research region with a signal effect
    By 2030, the Swiss GeoLab is expected to employ around 100 people and involve start-ups and industrial partners. The center will not only redefine earth observation, but also strengthen Lucerne’s position as a strong research location in the international innovation network.

  • New experience space in Bern combines culture, business and everyday life

    New experience space in Bern combines culture, business and everyday life

    After six years of renovation, the Kaiserhaus in Bern’s Marktgasse is now ready for the public. According to a press release, the building is set to become a place of encounter and learning as well as a meeting place for fashion and local trade. The opening is planned for 10 April 2026.

    The Kaiserhaus combines catering, retail and a place of learning in one. The gastronomic highlights include the Brasserie Kaiser, the Kaiser Deli and the Hof Bar. The retail spaces also serve to try out new economic, ecological and social models. In the Atelier & Manufaktur area, products are repaired or manufactured for spectators, for example. The Kiosk & Shop area is intended to provide space for pioneering brands as well as start-ups. Circular economy products will also be found here. And the Events & Pop-ups area will constantly have new offers for customers with exhibitions, workshops or a market.

    In the Moneyverse, you can learn all about the history of money and the work of the Swiss National Bank(SNB). Lectures on science, culture and business complete the educational programme. Moneyverse is an initiative of the SNB in collaboration with the Bernisches Historisches Museum. It is intended to enrich the Kaiserhaus experience.

  • Launch of sustainable energy network in Urdorf

    Launch of sustainable energy network in Urdorf

    The official ground-breaking ceremony in the municipality of Urdorf marked the start of construction of the Urdorf energy network. In collaboration with Energie360°, it will supply up to 150 properties belonging to private individuals and municipal facilities with regional thermal energy for heating and hot water from autumn 2026, according to the energy supplier.

    To this end, an energy solution will be implemented that utilises heating energy from wood chips and waste heat from the Dietikon waste incineration plant. According to Energie360°, the climate-friendly heating strategy reduces dependence on fossil fuels and price fluctuations. Around 4000 tonnes of CO2 can be saved in Urdorf every year.

    More than 1500 households could benefit from the connection, it says. By taking the step towards a sustainable energy supply, the municipality is fulfilling a “role model function in the area of energy and the environment”, according to municipal president Sandra Rottensteiner.

    The network is a relevant component of regional energy planning on the way to becoming a climate-neutral municipality. Urdorf wants to achieve the goal of climate neutrality by 2050. Heat from wood chips and waste incineration plants is seen as a climate-friendly, regional alternative to heat from fossil fuels.

    Energie360° is organising an information event for citizens. On Monday, 10 November 2025 from 6 pm, interested parties can learn about the current status of the Urdorf energy network and find out how they can connect to the property. This information evening will take place in the Embrisaal (Im Embi 8) in Urdorf.

  • New residential neighbourhood brings dynamism to Spreitenbach

    New residential neighbourhood brings dynamism to Spreitenbach

    The Tivoli Garten neighbourhood is revitalising the municipality of Spreitenbach, according to a press release. People have been able to move in there since mid-July and by mid-September more than 500 residents had already taken advantage of this, according to the municipality, citing figures from the residents’ services.

    The largest group are the 226 people (45 per cent) who have moved to Tivoli Garten from the canton of Zurich. This is followed by 121 people (24 per cent) from the canton of Aargau, 89 people (18 per cent) who have moved within Spreitenbach, 49 people (10 per cent) from other cantons and 22 people (4 per cent) who have moved to Tivoli Garten from abroad.

    Tivoli Garten offers a total of 445 rental flats (1.5 to 5.5 rooms) and small commercial spaces on an area of 15,000 square metres. A communal garden with a playground serves as a meeting place for the residents.

  • Further training for modern fire protection expertise

    Further training for modern fire protection expertise

    The Technopark Zurich-based AFC Academy, which claims to be a leader in training and further education in the areas of fire protection, safety and building technology, has developed the BSV 2026 retraining concept, which prepares specialists for the new BSV 2026 fire protection regulations, according to a press release.

    In Module A of the training programme, the academy provides an overview of the key innovations of BSV 2026 at fire protection specialist level and practises drawing up plans and concepts in accordance with the regulations. Module B, on the other hand, teaches the practical application of the new requirements and documentation methods at fire protection expert level.

    According to the AFC Academy, the new fire protection regulations BSV 2026 mark a fundamental change in Swiss fire protection and significantly increase the requirements. Risk-based verifications are replacing standard solutions and make in-depth knowledge of structural, technical and organisational contexts essential. As fire protection is becoming an integral part of architecture, utilisation, operation and technology, it is necessary to work together on all these levels – interdisciplinary thinking is therefore becoming crucial, according to the Academy. In future, clear communication will also be required: specific requirements for documentation, quality assurance and enforcement must be clearly communicated to clients, authorities and project partners.

    The AFC Academy has been offering training programmes for fire protection, sustainable construction, safety and building technology since 2016.

  • Compact energy storage for sustainable building technology

    Compact energy storage for sustainable building technology

    Cowa Thermal Solutions AG, based in the Technopark Lucerne in Root, has entered into a wholesale partnership with the distribution company Meier Tobler from Schwerzenbach ZH. According to a press release, Cowa intends to use this partnership to significantly expand its market segment in Switzerland. Meier Tobler, a provider of building technology products in the areas of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and sanitation, will distribute Cowa heat storage units for use in single-family homes, apartment blocks and for integration into heat pump and photovoltaic systems. This will make access easier for tradesmen in particular.

    “With Meier Tobler, we have gained Switzerland’s strongest sales partner, who also shares our vision of compact and sustainable heat storage,” said André Waller, CRO of Cowa Thermal Solutions AG, in the press release. “This partnership is a milestone for us. It makes access to future-oriented heat storage easier than ever before, directly where installers order anyway.”

    Cowa plans to launch a new latent heat storage system on the market by the end of 2025. The product for domestic hot water will have a phase change material (PCM) melting point of 48 degrees Celsius and therefore have a high energy efficiency. According to Cowa, the melting point of this “technological world first” would be 10 degrees lower than that of previous systems. Thanks to the low melting point, almost all standard heat pumps can be used for the storage tank.

  • Strategic partnership strengthens building technology and energy planning

    Strategic partnership strengthens building technology and energy planning

    AEW Energie AG is acquiring a stake in Herzog Kull Group Holding AG(HKG). The energy supplier from Aarau will acquire a 35 per cent stake in the Zug-based building technology and electrical engineering group, AEW announced in a press release. The two companies intend to develop new business areas together. Examples cited in the press release include general planning for site concepts and standardised overall solutions for residential construction.

    The two companies have agreed not to disclose the purchase price for the shares. AEW and HKG have already worked together in the past. AEW acquired a 50 per cent stake in the HKG subsidiary GA-Werkstatt.ch AG(GAW) at the end of 2023. GAW is to be merged with HKG subsidiary Energy-Group.ch AG this year to form Energy Group AG.

    “The megatrends of decarbonisation, decentralisation and digitalisation will continue to shape the energy system in the future, and every building will be an active element in this,” AEW CEO Marc Ritter is quoted as saying in the press release. His company intends to expand its own expertise in planning, engineering and building management, while continuing to forgo activities in execution. As part of the acquisition of HKG, Ritter and AEW Chairman of the Board of Directors Raffael Schubiger will join the Board of Directors of Herzog Kull Group Holding AG.

  • Expansion of the range for modern building envelopes

    Expansion of the range for modern building envelopes

    The Pestalozzi Group has launched Pestalozzi Alutechnik AG. As Pestalozzi reports in a LinkedIn post, the subsidiary will offer “a wide range of high-quality aluminium products and innovative system solutions” as the exclusive Swiss distribution partner of Aluprof, a manufacturer of aluminium systems belonging to Grupa Kęty SA from Kenty (Kęty) in Poland and operating in Europe. While the company is available immediately for industrial profiles and consultations, aluminium systems are to be delivered from 9 March 2026.

    Pestalozzi Alutechnik AG is your contact for windows and doors, façades and fire protection. The company offers innovative products as well as intelligent and modular system solutions for residential and commercial construction. After detailed consultation with experts, solutions are developed individually and customised to the customer’s needs. Pestalozzi offers support from planning and system selection through to delivery.

  • Traditional property in Horgen changes hands

    Traditional property in Horgen changes hands

    UBS is ceding the Bocken seminar hotel and country estate in Horgen to the Swiss Life Group. A corresponding contract has already been signed, UBS announced in a press release. The purchase price for the property has not been disclosed.

    The former Credit Suisse training centre in Horgen was transferred to UBS as part of the merger of the two major banks. However, UBS operates its own training centre, the UBS Center for Education and Dialogue Wolfsberg in Ermatingen TG. Since its reopening in 2020, this centre has also had greater capacity for seminars and events than the Bocken training centre in Horgen. This means that UBS no longer needs the Bocken seminar hotel.

    Swiss Life intends to use the “historic country estate” primarily “for internal events and further training”, explains Group CEO Matthias Aellig in the press release. “We also want to open up the Bocken to external guests.” According to Sergio P. Ermotti, CEO of UBS Group AG, the takeover of the Bocken seminar hotel by the Swiss Life Group “creates the best conditions for all parties involved and for the region to ensure that this wonderful property can continue to be run sustainably in the future”.

  • Architecture firm expands international presence

    Architecture firm expands international presence

    Montalba Architects, the international architecture firm with existing offices in Lausanne, Switzerland, and Los Angeles, California, has opened an office in New York’s Meatpacking District in Manhattan. With this office, the architects are strengthening their presence on the American East Coast and their commitment to location-based, well thought-out architectural markets in various global markets, as detailed in a press release.

    The location allows architecture to be perceived through different perspectives, be it rural or metropolitan, explains David Montalba, founder of Montalba Architects. Building on the foundations of the Lausanne and Californian offices, the architecture firm can continue to promote cultural exchange and design dialogue between Europe and the United States. The opening ceremony in New York was attended by a close circle of friends, employees and design and architecture professionals. “We are excited to build a growing circle of partners in New York and internationally as we embark on the next 20 years as a firm,” said David Montalba.

    Montalba Architects, founded in 2004, combines Californian modernism with Swiss precision in its projects, according to the company. The architects have won multiple awards for their designs of residential, retail, hospitality, commercial and cultural spaces in North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

  • Expansion in the area of wall solutions

    Expansion in the area of wall solutions

    Holcim AG acquires Xella International GmbH. The Duisburg-based group, which operates throughout Europe, specialises in building materials, insulating materials and services for the building envelope. With this acquisition, Holcim intends to expand its own portfolio with Xella’s complementary offering, the Zug-based building materials group explained in a press release.

    “This strategic acquisition is a milestone in our vision to be the leading partner for sustainable construction and accelerates the expansion of our high value-added Building Solutions business in line with our NextGen Growth 2030 strategy,” Holcim CEO Miljan Gutovic is quoted as saying. “By complementing our offering in the highly attractive market for wall solutions with a volume of more than 12 billion euros, Xella will open up cross-selling and system sales opportunities for us.” The transaction value is estimated at 1.85 billion euros in the press release. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.

  • Federal Council plans new law for communication platforms and search engines

    Federal Council plans new law for communication platforms and search engines

    Today, the digital space is largely controlled by a few global platforms. Companies such as Meta, Alphabet, TikTok and X operate central communication infrastructures according to their own rules. These corporations not only influence what content is visible, but also how public communication and opinion-forming take place. The Federal Council sees this as a growing risk for democratic debate in Switzerland and wants to counteract this with the new law.

    Protection of users and constitutional procedures
    The core of the regulation is a binding reporting procedure for illegal content. Platforms must enable users to report suspected criminal content such as defamation, abuse or hate speech in an uncomplicated manner. At the same time, providers must justify their moderation decisions in a comprehensible manner, inform those affected and provide internal complaints procedures. Out-of-court dispute resolution should serve as an additional protective measure in cases of conflict.

    Transparency in advertising and algorithms
    In addition to content management, the law also targets the economic and algorithmic power of platforms. It provides for new transparency obligations regarding the labeling of advertising, the use of recommendation systems and the establishment of publicly accessible advertising archives. Authorities and research institutions are to be given access to relevant platform data in future. A step that is not only important in terms of democratic policy, but also in terms of location strategy.

    Legal representation in Switzerland becomes mandatory
    Another point strengthens legal enforcement. Foreign providers without a branch in Switzerland must appoint a legal representative in Switzerland. The draft law thus creates an effective means of obliging global companies to comply with national standards. A measure that creates legal clarity and positions Switzerland as a digital location capable of regulatory action.

    Targeted regulation instead of overregulation
    The law is explicitly aimed at very large platforms only. Defined as services with a monthly reach of at least ten percent of the permanent resident population, i.e. around 900,000 users. This keeps the law focused and proportional without burdening smaller providers or start-ups.

    Consultation and open questions
    The consultation will run until February 16, 2026. Authorities, associations, companies and other interested parties are invited to participate. Particular attention is being paid to feedback on the planned provisions for the protection of minors and the specific structure of the notification procedure.

    A signal for digital location competition
    With the new law, Switzerland is positioning itself in international location competition as a country with clear and fair rules in the digital space. This creates new framework conditions for investors, platform operators and digital business models. Anyone wishing to tap into the Swiss market must focus on transparency, accountability and user rights in future. A decisive step towards a responsible digital ecosystem.

  • Young talents shape the future with responsibility and context

    Young talents shape the future with responsibility and context

    The award-winning projects focus on transformation instead of tabula rasa. Existing places, materials and social structures are not replaced, but rather built upon and re-contextualized. This approach reflects a change in the profession. Analysis, research, field studies and the examination of local realities are an integral part of the design process. Architecture is understood as a precise reaction to complex framework conditions, with a clear awareness of social responsibility and resource conservation.

    New choice of location, new perspectives
    By holding the competition in southern Switzerland for the first time, the focus has shifted to regional identities and academic diversity. At the same time, the award for a project from the Università della Svizzera italiana marks a milestone for architectural education in Ticino. The jury recognized 31 Master’s theses, evaluated by renowned experts. The decision criteria reflected technical depth, spatial sensitivity and the ability to develop design clarity from complex contexts.

    Projects that open up spaces and strengthen communities
    Whether harbor area in Basel, contaminated industrial zones in Portugal or barns in alpine communities, the award-winning projects address real challenges and offer socially anchored solutions that are close to their intended use. They create meeting places, strengthen local production cultures, rethink rural spaces and experiment with temporary uses as an urban strategy. Images, models and drawings serve not only as representations, but also as research tools to make design processes transparent and comprehensible.

    A generation with attitude and vision
    All the works are united by a common ethos: repair instead of replacement, context instead of icon, cooperation instead of solitaire. This attitude stands for a concept of architecture that focuses on collective sustainability. The award ceremony made it clear that young architects are prepared to take responsibility and actively participate in the spatial transformation of our built environment. The self-image of the profession is thus developing further towards moderation, mediation and social commitment, without sacrificing aesthetic ambition.

  • Satellites create new transparency

    Satellites create new transparency

    The CO2M satellite mission represents a turning point in the detection of greenhouse gases. The originally planned two satellites were extended by a third satellite following Empa simulations. This shortens the global measurement period from five to around 3.5 days. Instead of narrow measurement strips, the instruments will in future provide comprehensive maps with a resolution of two kilometers. This will make emissions from individual countries, cities and industrial sources visible. The mission is anchored in the EU’s Copernicus Earth observation program and is being developed by ESA and later operated by EUMETSAT.

    Nitrogen dioxide data reveals inaccuracies
    At the same time, the CORSO project is creating a global data set of large emitters such as power plants, cement works and steel factories. Comparisons of databases with TROPOMI satellite measurements show significant deviations. Plants that do not even exist, missing entries and incorrect assumptions about fuels. In the case of dual-fuel power plants in particular, it was shown that in many places gas is primarily used instead of oil, which results in lower nitrogen oxide levels. These findings form the basis for mapping CO2 with comparable precision in the future.

    Perspective on global climate progress
    The new measuring instruments expand the possibility of monitoring man-made emissions precisely and continuously. Air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides can already be reliably quantified today. With the CO2M satellites, this capability will be transferred to greenhouse gases. This creates a data-based view from space that shows in detail whether international climate targets are actually being achieved.