Category: Regions

New life for the old spinning mill

"The winning project was selected on the one hand because of the urban development strategy on the northern area, and on the other hand because of the respectful handling of the listed old buildings", says the lead architect Urs Oechslin from Zurich-based Lilin Architects. The two new building ensembles in the foreground of the spinning mill, which are intended for different uses, create a reference to the context through their urban planning anchored in place. The volumetric differentiation is derived from the existing settlement pattern of the urbanized village. The sub-volumes are staggered in terms of depth and height and allow different views of the spinning mill. The building typology thus mediates with great independence between the individual village buildings and the large-scale spinning mill building. In this way, the spinning mill area is given a new, urban face in which the various identities of the building history are superimposed.
Desired longevity
Immediately after the study contract, the overall project was concretized, accompanied by the client, the building authorities, the preservation of monuments and representatives from the assessment committee and the neighborhood: "We are about to submit the draft of the development plan and the guideline project to a first round of official consultation" , so Oechslin. It is not easy to build a building park around the spinning mill that can keep up with the quality of the monument and whose beauty and benefits guarantee the desired longevity. In the immediate vicinity of such a monument, the demands on the architectural quality are very high. The cultural acceptance associated with aesthetics is more decisive for the value of the property than some technical innovations. What is no longer publicly pleasing will sooner or later be torn down. What, on the other hand, enjoys a social and cultural status, remains. The real meaning of a house ultimately lies in the contribution it makes to public life in the long term. Urs Oechslin: “If the population, the Baar community and the owners are successful in promising a place of great attraction, then the project will be approved by all authorities. It will have a political majority and will be supported by the broader population. "
Sustainable renewal
For some time now, the «Spinni» has not served the purpose for which it was originally built. Since the end of production, a wide variety of uses have established themselves in the rooms. The clear and simple building structure of the spinning mill building is functionally sustainable because user extensions integrated in it can be easily adapted to changes. The high quality longevity of the basic structure achieved in this way is also aimed at for the new buildings. That is why it is being adapted for the new mixed-use buildings. As a result, the proposed building structure is not tied to a specific use and will survive future renovation processes.
A coherent whole
The historically and structurally established strong identity of the area is a large fund from which any number of ideas can be realized. Time and again it is important to find suitable means to further develop, reinterpret and supplement this identity. In this way, the high level of social acceptance that the area enjoys today is to be further expanded. "Our motivation is to design a new, staggered part of the settlement with the intelligent combination of architectural, landscape-architectural and usage-specific interventions on the area of the old spinning mill on the Lorze", says Oechslin. And further: “This takes over the existing qualities and complements them adequately and respectfully. The demanding cultural, social, economic, ecological and building law requirements should be combined in a coherent whole in the interests of all those involved. "
The new use of «Spinni» needs to be carefully considered and planned.

April 2021
From paper to quarters

“The construction progress of the five buildings of the first construction phase is on schedule despite the pandemic,” says the person responsible for communication, Kathrin Sonderegger. In the southernmost high-rise building with condominiums (Papieri-Suites), the shell is already up to the fifth floor. In the former PM1-4 paper machine halls, new staircases, floor ceilings and apartment partition walls are being installed, as well as the renovation of the facade for the spacious loft apartments and studios (Papieri-Lofts). The new building with 160 rental apartments running parallel to this – 30 of them in the inexpensive range – is also well advanced in terms of shell construction. The Maschinengasse that is emerging between the two buildings is also slowly becoming recognizable. This will be animated at the end of 2022 by the various users of the one or two-story adjoining studios. Underground car parks 1 and 2 are currently under construction, and their parking spaces can be equipped with charging stations for electric cars in a future-proof manner.
Planning of the second construction phase is well advanced
The newly renovated and listed Lokremise was handed over to its new owner at the end of the year. Sonderegger says: "After the renovation of the workshop building, the second commercial conversion of a historic building on the site became a reality." At the end of the year, the construction of the new Ringstrasse (Papieri-Ring) began, which is part of the main development of the area and encircles the buildings of the second construction phase. As part of the second construction phase, in addition to the commercially used replacement building for the silo building, two high-rise residential buildings with 61 owner-occupied and 36 rental apartments will be built. Commercial space and a day-care center are planned on the ground floors. 64 micro-apartments complete the housing offer.
CO2-neutral energy system
Those responsible for the site development pursue the goals of the 2000 Watt Society. It is worth mentioning the sustainable energy supply of the Papieri area with a self-sufficient, CO2-neutral heating and cooling supply. A significant amount of electricity is generated by the company's own river power plant and photovoltaic systems on the building roofs. The construction of the energy center has been completed and the installation of the technical systems is in full swing. Also as part of the energy system, around 100 geothermal probes have already been drilled and installed to a depth of 320 meters. The energy system will be put into operation in autumn 2021, so that the existing houses and the buildings under construction can already be supplied with sustainable heat this winter. “In addition to the building permit, the canton's concession for the operation of the run-of-river power plant is available, the renovation of which will start in early summer 2021. The area of the former wastewater treatment plant (ARA) will be completely renatured, landscaped and supplemented with a small river arm ”, says Sonderegger.
Huge interest
The Cham Group is already seeing a great deal of interest from the population: "The residents find out what is happening on the site and we try to get updates accordingly," says Sonderegger. Unfortunately, the corona pandemic is currently making events such as the open construction site day in 2019 for residents and interested parties impossible. The reactions at the time were overwhelming. “The same thing can also be seen in sales: there is great confidence in our site development and the quarter that is being created here. The first apartments that came on the market at the end of 2019 were reserved within a week. Over 3000 people have subscribed to our newsletter. » One reason for the trust is that the Cham Group will be there as the owner and builder. The team has its offices on the site and is on the pulse of what's happening. Suggestions can be reacted to, feedback and inputs flow directly, and any reservations are defused.
On June 4, 2020, when the foundation stone was laid, a time capsule was filled with objects typical of the time and built into the foundation of the first construction phase. It should document the building project for future generations. What was the most special item? Sonderegger explains with a laugh: “In view of the fact that we can't even have lunch in a restaurant at the moment, and many people miss this time together in the team, the current menu cards from the surrounding restaurants are items of particular relevance. Who knows whether meat will still be eaten in 100 years' time – then minced meat tats might be part of a forgotten meal. "

April 2021
Suurstoffi: Area development with a model character

«The Suurstoffi offers everything we need for our work. We can no longer be taken away so quickly here, ”says Sanofi Aventis CEO Andrea Meyer. A nice compliment for Zug Estates, which in the last ten years has developed a district in Rotkreuz that impresses with its architecture, greenery and energy efficiency. The once unattractive area has been revitalized. "The Rotkreuz community has an excellent macro location and is easily accessible by public transport," says Martin Jöri, Head of Strategic Site Management at Zug Estates. “The area is right next to the train station, but can also be easily reached by motorized private transport. The quarter is a kind of village within the village, and the campus concept is omnipresent. "
A healthy mix
All in all, Jöri appreciates the mix of living, business, research, school and gastronomy. He also likes the typical district infrastructure with a hairdresser or doctor. According to the latest construction status, the area is practically completed: “A construction site with two office buildings (Suurstoffi p. 18/19) has not yet been developed – but the building permit is available. The construction will be triggered in accordance with demand if sufficient occupancy has been achieved beforehand. " Looking back, Jöri regards the high construction speed with the aim of on-time commissioning as the greatest hurdle that had to be overcome.
“Zero-Zero” goal
The Suurstoffi is breaking new ground with an exemplary energy concept. On the site, solar use, several dynamic underground storage facilities and an anergy network form the basis for achieving the “zero-zero” goal. That means: the around 165,000 square meter Suurstoffi area is CO2-neutral. The energy for heating and cooling is generated by underground storage and building waste heat, electricity is provided by various solar power systems. The aim is complete self-sufficiency with primary energy for heating and water treatment. It was precisely this ambitious energy concept that particularly appealed to Jöri about the building: “It is a future-oriented vision of a CO2-free quarter with as much energy as possible, which is provided from our own production. But the architecture is also great. There is no uniformity here. Each construction site has a varied design. We also attached great importance to a green and high-quality outdoor space. "

April 2021
The development of the Metalli is going according to plan

The Metalli development is located in the core zone of Zug and is to be redesigned. Urban development projects are known to be protracted projects. Interventions in urban structures change the appearance of a city and affect many people accordingly. «We are aware of our responsibility. It is therefore important to find out what the needs of the population, residents and all other users of Metalli are, ”says Peter Wicki, Project Development Manager at Zug Estates. Politicians, interest groups and other groups or people also bring their concerns to the table. The aim is to create an intensely greened, sustainable and ecological metal. The building should have architectural and urban highlights. The current qualities and the wide range of products are to be retained. The interest groups advocate a meeting place where non-commercial activities are also possible. What is wanted is a new town square that will enliven the center near the train station between Zug and Baar, which has grown significantly in recent years. The existing glass passage is valued and should be retained in the same or a similar form. The aim is to expand non-motorized traffic – as well as affordable living space, more pop-up stores and other spontaneous or temporary uses of space.
Dialogue with everyone
"This balancing act of involving the various interest groups and yet developing a clear and strong idea that supports this place, which is so important for Zug and makes the city even more livable, is a great challenge and will remain so until the end," says Wicki. Two other key questions particularly stimulate him in this project: “How can we continue to grow without using up more land and still maintaining or even increasing the quality of today's settlement areas? At its core, it is about sustainable, high-quality interior compression ”. Just as important to Wicki is how the inner cities change as shopping behavior changes. "In the new Metalli habitat, we have to find an answer to these two central questions." This is an extremely relevant and exciting task.
More sustainable and greener
Nowadays, urban living spaces are designed differently than in the past. The Metalli was never developed as a pure shopping center, as the project development manager explains. Therefore, the area already brings numerous qualities of a modern living space with it. “Today it is already a lively quarter with a wide variety of uses and quality of stay. We want to further strengthen these qualities. " With the new Metalli-Platz, the district is being networked even further with the surrounding city. “The climatic conditions and awareness of sustainability have changed significantly in recent years. The new living space Metalli will become more sustainable and green. " Particular attention is paid to planting more trees and improving the quality of stay outdoors. The usage concept of the new living space should adapt to the current requirements of the Metalli visitors. «The trade will continue to change. The worlds of online and offline will merge. Companies have to find new ways to address consumers, ”summarizes Wicki. Metalli offers an ideal platform for this. In addition, they want to offer more products from the region.
Last autumn, the structural project by Hosoya Schaefer Architects with Nyx Architects and the landscape architect Lorenz Eugster was submitted to the city of Zug. This project emerged as the winner of the urban planning competition. The development plan is currently being drawn up. A period of two years is planned for this phase. At the same time, the tender for the project competition is being prepared. "If everything continues to go according to plan, we will be able to start construction work in 2025," says Wicki.

April 2021
A new business center for Neuhof-Baar

The Neuhof business district is the second and final stage of the Neufeld project. A modern, five-storey building with an area of around 5750 m² is being built between Zug and Baar. The demolition of the existing building is expected to begin in April 2021. Completion is planned for 2023.
The first stage of the new field project comprised the construction of the European headquarters of Emerson Process Management. The second building and the proximity to the A4 motorway junction and Baar Neufeld train station are intended to attract further international companies. HCI International Corporate Architects are responsible for both stages. In the basement of the new business center on the second stage there is a parking garage with charging stations for e-cars and e-bikes. A roof terrace is planned for the second stage as a relaxation area for the employees.
The interior is bright and the entire construction is environmentally friendly. The Minergie-certified building will have a triple-glazed facade, energy-efficient air conditioning, raised floors and a fully automatic LED lighting system. Future tenants can plan tailor-made areas such as reception areas, C-Suite and conference rooms – the construction costs are financed by the owner as part of the rental package.

March 2021
Live and work in stackable towers

The plans of the association Vision Zukunft Bösch are ambitious: 3000 jobs for 600 companies are to be created on 30 hectares in Hünenberg on the Bösch site. The aim is to upgrade the area and make it a leading location for innovative SMEs in the service, trade and industry sectors. Keeas designed the first development model in 2018 on behalf of the Zugwest Economic Region Association. At the same time the club was
Vision of the future of Bösch founded.
The challenge in developing the area: space is limited. So that numerous companies can still settle, three high-rise buildings are to be built. These are not classic high-rise buildings, but stackable towers: Energy self-sufficient boxes are attached to large lifts. Companies could easily grow taller here: Additional boxes can be flexibly stacked.
Creative SMEs in particular are likely to feel addressed by this location: there are slides instead of stairs. But the topics of energy and sustainability are also taken into account. Due to its high daily consumption, Bösch offers optimal conditions for the installation of photovoltaic systems on the roofs. The waste heat from the nearby Perlen paper mill could be used as heating and cooling energy.
A range of e-cars, car sharing and e-bikes through to pooled company and visitor parking spaces is conceivable. The so-called energy and mobility hub works with large batteries. These optimize the energy consumption of the solar systems and charge electric vehicles at the same time. Truck and commercial ramps are to be built around existing commercial buildings. In addition, an autonomous bus is planned that will provide direct access to the IT campus and the Rotkreuz train station.
The municipality of Hünenberg owns a piece of land in the immediate vicinity of the International School im Bösch, which it would make available for the construction of a reference company. This future “Campus Bösch” is likely to lay the foundation for the overall project. The vision is constantly being developed.

March 2021
Second stage of the Quadrolith activated in Baar

You cannot overlook it: the Quadrolith in Baar immediately catches the eye with its golden facade. The plans of the real estate company Alfred Müller based in Baar envisage two modern commercial buildings with space for 1000 workplaces on 30,000 square meters. The first building alone, which was completed in 2018, takes up 12,600 square meters. From the beginning, the aim was to build it in two stages.
The remaining 17,250 square meters are currently being built on. The reference date is set for September 30, 2021. Marketing is already in progress. Companies of all sizes should be addressed with a flexible usage concept. The areas can be divided up and expanded individually. The U-shaped new building is then directly adjacent to the headquarters of Alfred Müller AG.
The office complex has a modular structure and a functional architecture. Thanks to the design, the overall depth of both buildings, each with six floors above ground, could be deliberately kept low. This ensures optimal lighting conditions and space efficiency. Gold-colored, vertical metal strips give the facade its striking color. The overhang of the top two floors creates a futuristic appearance. Numerous trees and two green inner courtyards also characterize the exterior.
Inside, the stairwells and toilet facilities are made of natural stone. The floors of the terraces on the 3rd and 5th floors are made of porcelain stoneware tiles. The height of the room varies from 2.40 to 2.54 meters depending on the floor. The windows are room high. An environmentally friendly heat pump heating system with energy piles and support from natural gas heating ensures reduced operating costs and reduced CO2 emissions. The concrete energy piles connected to the subsurface are provided with plastic pipes in order to exchange heat or cold with the subsoil. In addition, there are charging stations for electric vehicles in the open air and in the garage.

March 2021
Tech Cluster Zug: A signal for the future

The Tech Cluster Zug (TCZ) is a commitment to Switzerland as an industrial location: "Currently, four large new buildings have already been built for the consolidation of V-ZUG or are in the process of being developed," says CEO Beat Weiss, not without pride. There were a number of hurdles to overcome: “On the one hand, there are building law restrictions. The industry often has to react quickly to new circumstances. On the other hand, we also want to be attractive to third parties, although they don't want to wait five years for building permits. But the high utilization and high density on the area also presented us with some challenges. " Every new building must be compatible with the city, neighborhood and neighborhood.
So far, this has been an excellent success, especially since the development plan for the Zug Tech Cluster has been accepted without dissenting votes in the Grand City Council. There were no objections later either. The road to this goal was long: "It took five years to get the current planning law – from 2013 to 2018. But to this day, every new building application is, in spite of everything, a productive discussion with neighbors, the Zug Cityscape Commission and urban planning." Cooperation with well-known architects such as Diener & Diener from Basel, who, among other things, have realized the entrance building on the Novartis Campus, is definitely beneficial.
Three new major customers in Zug
For Weiss, it is exciting to bring all of the different interests under one roof: “A current key element is the Mobility Hub, which we are currently building. These include a multi-storey car park with around 600 potential electric parking spaces with options to switch to public transport or non-motorized traffic as well as shops and bistro space. This new infrastructure is located on the northern periphery of the city of Zug, which will be developed via the new connection axis to the motorway from mid-2021. " Such traffic management also contributes to the urban location advantages, which in turn attract more and more skilled workers to central Switzerland. The small area, the proximity to nature, but also the uncomplicated way of solving problems would make the city of Zug particularly attractive. This is also reflected in three new major projects that are being implemented for third parties: “There is SHL, for example. So far, it has exclusively produced in Taiwan and now wants to set up European production – not least because of the coronavirus. " It manufactures auto-injectors for insulin pumps and until now only had its main office in Zug. The second project concerns VZ DepotBank, which is part of the asset center in Zurich and accommodates a large part of its workplaces, particularly in the IT services sector, in the tech cluster. “Finally, we have the co-working space provider Westhive, who, after Zurich and other cities, is now also actively involved in our work,” says Weiss happily.

March 2021
Green light for the Unterfeld project in Baar

The subfield is one of the last large contiguous building land reserves and has been declared a cantonal agglomeration area. The location directly on the municipal boundary between Baar and Zug is adjacent to the Lorze recreation zone and offers a lot of development potential. But sometimes such comprehensive concepts need more than one try. This is also the case with the Unterfeld area planning: After the population of Baar had spoken out against cross-border planning in spring 2017, the “Unterfeld Süd” project was waved through in September 2020 in the second attempt by the voters with 65 percent yes-votes.
The project was redeveloped under the leadership of the Baar municipality and in a team of 50. The team consisted of experts from the fields of urban development and landscape architecture, representatives of the authorities and landowners as well as residents, supporters and opponents of the earlier project, members of specialist committees and associations as well as local parties.
Building on the district design plan, the zoning plan and the building regulations have been coordinated. An agreement has been reached on the construction of a sustainable quarter that enables new ways of living, living and working. Four building sites are being built over in stages. Rental apartments and condominiums are planned. The creation of office and service areas as well as public-oriented uses on some of the ground floors are also planned. A neighborhood square, a spacious boulevard for non-motorized traffic and a lot of green space ensure sufficient open space. Three high-rise buildings with heights of 60, 50 and 40 meters are to be built.
The architecture competition for the first construction phase has already started. The Baar municipal assembly is expected to decide on the development plan in 2022. The first groundbreaking is unlikely to take place before summer 2023. First of all, the 60-meter high-rise near the Lindenpark S-Bahn station and the neighboring office building are to be built. The other construction areas are being developed further in parallel.
The owners are Implenia Immobilien AG, Ina Invest AG and the Stocker heirs. Implenia is responsible for the site development. The company is developing plots 1A and 4 as the owner and plots 1B and 3 on behalf of Ina Invest. The two local housing cooperatives, the Baar family and the Liberale Baar cooperative, continue to show interest. The Zug corporation is planning a project in the city of Zug independently of the other landowners. How this will look is still open.

March 2021
Unterfeld Nord: New headquarters for Partners Group Zug

In the north subfield – it is functionally independent from the south subfield – the Partners Group Zug is planning a new headquarters building, which is to be relocated from Zugerstrasse to the Unterfeld. The north subfield covers an area of around 37,920 square meters.
Three commercial buildings connected by bridges and a parking garage with 225 parking spaces on a total area of 21,000 square meters are planned on two plots. The straightening project was penned by Axess Architekten AG. The new headquarters of the asset manager will consist of three office complexes, two of which are designed as traditional factory buildings with brick facades. The “Entry Factory” leads on to the “Big Factory”. Both buildings have high windows that are reminiscent of a train station hall.
The third building is planned as a “green building”: the green terraced house with seven floors has neither corners nor edges, but rather resembles a cake with several layers that extends along Nordstrasse to the roundabout. In the simple development plan it is referred to as "organically curved". The individual floors of the eye-catching building are stepped like a staircase towards the south, as can be seen in the building application. Not only the shape, but also the planned intensive greening should one day attract attention. The “Greenbuilding” is connected to the “Entry Factory” by a bridge. It has an extension with a chimney to further emphasize the industrial character of the building.
In addition to office space, internal training rooms, a restaurant and recreational opportunities for employees are planned for the “green building”. A daycare center for the employees' children is planned in the factory to the east. All building types are conceptually based on the American headquarters in Denver and thus preserve the asset manager's corporate identity.
A new north-south connection is planned between the factory buildings. At a later date, a new bus line is to be built here, which will connect the Unterfeld area to the train stations in Zug and Baar. For this reason, the street is built so wide that a bus line can later be set up without any problems. However, the structure plan must be awaited for the specific line to be drawn up.

March 2021
New development at the Städtler Allmend

The plans for the 30,000 square meter property owned by Coop Immobilien AG and Heinz Häusler Immobilien AG have now been finalized in the Städtler Allmend industrial estate. CST Architects and Iten Landscape Architects were able to win the project competition by invitation.
Your project plans to supplement the existing office and commercial buildings in Städtler-Allmend with three new office buildings from Heinz Häusler AG. The development is intended to serve as the center of the Hinterberg area. For this purpose, a central, public square is planned as the heart of the new development. The buildings are arranged around it. The aim is to create a well-developed work and shopping district.
The buildings of different sizes fit harmoniously into the existing buildings of the area. In the center of the new development there is a high-rise that is deliberately set apart from the Alpenblick development. The headquarters for possible new companies will be set back slightly at the Alpenblick junction. This creates a green area in front of the intersection. On the ground floors of the buildings directly on the square, public-oriented uses are planned.
The Coop restaurant and the restaurants in the office buildings are also facing the square. Another restaurant with a bar could be set up in the high-rise building. The ground floors of the commercial buildings have freely divisible areas that are suitable for service providers. The buildings are accessed via the central square. This is characterized by two pergolas and two tree hills with swamp oaks.
Coop will expand the existing specialist store: with a Coop Construction & Hobby, a Coop Livique supermarket, a fitness studio, a petrol station and a large outdoor car park. The Holcim AG concrete plant is being relocated to another location.

March 2021
«Alpha»: a novelty in the canton of Zug

The windows of the Alpha office building, which has been under construction in Baar since summer 2020, are a novelty in the canton of Zug. Stephan Häusler, owner and CEO of Stephan Häusler AG and owner of Alpha, says: “We are foregoing classic sun blinds and relying on the SageGlass product for the glass facade. This adapts to the respective conditions depending on the amount of sunlight. " The glass darkens automatically, preventing the interior from heating up. Nevertheless, you can enjoy the view without restriction at any time. “This saves us energy as well as the maintenance and repair costs that are regularly incurred with classic sun blinds. The windows are a first in our canton. "
The Alpha office building also has a lot to offer: An ideal location, a beautiful entrance area and timeless architecture. But these attributes alone are no longer enough to score points with the targeted clientele. Häusler: “In the Alpha, tenants benefit from exclusive advantages. There is, for example, the large garden, which is also ideal for outdoor meetings. There are also two cozy loggias on each floor, which are more familiar from apartments. " On the ground floor there is a lounge with direct access to the outside area. In addition, the construction of a larger meeting room is planned. This can be reserved selectively and is suitable for events with up to 30 guests.
Fresh air thanks to ventilation blades
The interior design of the individual office complexes can be freely designed. Two showers are already planned in the basement – if the employees want to jog, fit or bike over lunch and then continue working after having showered. Häusler emphasizes the careful interior design: “For example, we manufacture the interior doors that lead into the offices from high-quality wood. This looks homely and differs from the run-of-the-mill office groove. We value beautiful colors and shapes. " The entire planning is based on the “New Work” working model: Everyone works differently. “New Work” enables more independent and freer doing and letting go. New forms of creative activities are possible in the Alpha. And if your heads do smoke, fresh air can be supplied without any problems: “Thanks to the built-in ventilation blades, the facade windows can be opened manually. This is something that people really appreciate. You don't feel like you're in an office glass box in the Alpha. "

March 2021
Steiner plans a new residential complex in Winterthur

The real estate developer Steiner AG is planning to build a new residential complex in Winterthur, according to a media release . It is to be built on the KIM site at Winterthur Neuhegi train station. The so-called Haus Weiler is to be built on a plot of 3328 square meters and comprises 80 condominiums. Twelve of these will be built as studio apartments on the ground floor with private garden terraces. A further twelve are being built as attic apartments with private roof terraces.

The design plan for the KIM area already became legally effective in September 2013. The newly emerging quarter combines living and working. It includes green areas, playgrounds and car-free zones. Grocery stores, cafes and restaurants are within walking distance. In addition, Zurich Airport can be reached in 25 minutes by car or train.

According to the announcement, the building application was submitted to the city of Winterthur on March 25th. Steiner AG expects construction work to start in summer 2022. Completion is planned for spring 2025.

March 2021
"The city of Zug should become greener"

To person
Eliane Birchmeier (FDP) has been city councilor and head of the building department of the city of Zug since January 2019. The 58-year-old studied business administration and is federally certified. dipl. PR consultant and founded Birchmeier Communications AG based in Zug in 2005. She was a member of the Board of Directors of Kursaal-Casino AG from 2004 to 2017 and co-owner of C-Matrix Communications AG from 1992 to 2004.
You are the head of the building department of the city of Zug. Where do you see your core tasks?
Eliane Birchmeier: My core tasks include the classic areas of responsibility in construction: On the one hand, there are building permits and building projects for city-owned civil engineering and structural engineering projects. On the other hand, we deal with planning, design and legal aspects in town planning and urban planning. This is about the future development of the city of Zug in terms of urban development and spatial planning with settlement, landscape and traffic.
The city of Zug is forecast to have around 10,000 population growth by 2040. What structural measures are planned to do justice to this development?
The forecast growth depends on the development of the project by private owners and investors. We have already done our homework in many areas. For example, when it comes to infrastructure projects in the areas of drainage, energy and disposal. In education, we – like other communities in Switzerland – have a certain amount of catching up to do. Various plans are currently underway for expanded and new school facilities. But we also want to upgrade the green and open spaces and improve the network of footpaths and bike paths in the coming years.
The economy should also continue to grow. Where do you see the greatest potential for new commercial buildings?
There is still great potential for expansion for trade and services in various former industrial and urban areas. These include the technology cluster with the V-Zug area, urban areas east and west of the station such as Metalli, Baarerstrasse West and the LG area. Then there is the area on the Aa II, which is being developed by the Zuger Verkehrsbetriebe, the Hertizentrum and the outer Lorzenallmend. In the future, these areas will offer mixed, urban uses of living, leisure and work.
Where in the canton can you find larger land reserves?
As elsewhere in the canton, growth in the city of Zug will mainly take place in the interior through densification. In addition, there are a few construction areas that have not yet been built up, such as the outer Lorzenallmend, areas in the Herti and Unterfeld, in the Lüssi / Göbli and in a southerly direction in the Salesianum and in Oberwil. Actual zoning is not the focus of ongoing local planning.
"We expect planning applications for the Lüssi / Göbli area and the area of the Salesianum country house soon"
Which projects are planned there?
In the outer Lorzenallmend, a development plan is being drawn up for a residential and work area and in Herti Süd one for a residential development. There are currently no plans in the Herti Nord, Unterfeld or Spielhof. In the Lüssi / Göbli and the Salesianum there are legally binding development plans for residential developments. We expect planning applications for this in the near future.
What are currently the most important construction projects that you are involved in?
City-owned projects are the construction of the recycling center and the Ökihof in the north of the city. School complexes are being planned and projected throughout the city. The project competition for the extension of the lido starts this year, and in summer the Zug population will be able to use the new emergency rooms in the Göbli district.
The city of Zug is in the middle of the local plan revision process. Is there already an initial strategy for mobility and open space?
The city's spatial development strategy will be drawn up in several stages and steps up to autumn 2021. The first thrusts based on the technical basis, the population survey and the first participation phase are clearly emerging: the city should become greener. In addition, a diverse and high-quality range of different open spaces should be available to the population.
What does the population want?
She would like the growth in mobility to be absorbed by expanding and promoting pedestrian and bicycle traffic as well as public transport. Traffic routing in the center is to be simplified and designed in a way that is compatible with settlement. Particular attention is paid to optimizing commuter traffic. In cooperation with the canton and neighboring communities, but also with employers, we are focusing on an increased shift towards public transport, which is already excellently developed, and non-motorized private transport.

March 2021
Focus on qualitative development

Zug is one of the most popular economic and living areas. This is proven by numerous studies and rankings. The success is based on a long-term development strategy and attractive framework conditions. Zug offers a unique combination of excellent location factors such as the availability of skilled workers, stability, attractive taxation, central location, quality of life, level of education and economic friendliness.
The Zug business center is dynamic, as evidenced by developments on the real estate market and in the transport infrastructure. The strong presence of value-added industries and service providers as well as a high concentration of high-growth sectors are important for the quality of economic development. The broadly diversified industry structure and the unique mix of small, large, local and international companies are an important driver for the innovative development of the canton. The focus of economic management by the Department of Economics is on the existing and established companies. Their growth makes the greatest contribution to the canton's economic development.
Testimonials
Silvia Thalmann-Gut, member of the government, economics director and governor of the canton of Zug
The canton of Zug offers excellent location conditions for everyone. This includes the "Spirit of Zug" that is lived. The distances are short, the authorities work quickly and efficiently. Zug's success is based on a long-term strategy.
Heini Schmid, lawyer, former Cantonal Councilor and long-time President of Zug Tourism
Zug is in Switzerland what Switzerland is in Europe: small, surrounded by large neighbors and therefore open and adaptable. For us, changes are always an opportunity to do things differently and better. Zug is Switzerland to the power of two; it is the total package that counts.
Matthias Rebellius, CEO Siemens Smart Infrastructure, Chairman of the Board of Directors Siemens Schweiz AG
From Zug, we are driving digitalization at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. For us, Zug is an ideal location for our global headquarters, as we can attract and promote the best local and international talent here.
Johanna Friedl-Naderer, President Europe, Canada & Partner Markets, Biogen
Zug is the hub of our international headquarters. From here we coordinate our operational and administrative activities worldwide. The central location and high quality of life make Zug an attractive location for top talent.
Contact point for the economy of the Canton of Zug
Welcome to the canton of Zug. Our services are aimed directly at you as an entrepreneur. We are your partner and promote Zug as a business location.
Business contact point, Aabachstrasse 5, 6300 Zug, T +41 41 728 55 04, economy@zg.ch
Alberto Diaz, Deputy Ladder; Peter Müllhaupt, jur. Employee; Yvonne Valentino, assistant / back office manager; Ursula Kottmann Müller, Marketing / Communication; Beat Bachmann, Head (from left to right). Photographer: Peter Hofstetter

March 2021
A “grand projet” for Zug

Even the former French President François Mitterand described the conversion of large areas of the city of Paris as "grand projets". Christian Salewski & Simon Kretz Architects, pool Architects, Studio Vulkan Landschaftsarchitektur are planning just such a “big project” together with mrs partner: The Landis & Gyr area (LG area) is to be redesigned. Et voilà: After an urban development study contract and the transfer of the revised concept into a guide project, the next planning step can take place in summer 2021. According to the planning and building law of the canton of Zug, a development plan is required for the further development of the area. Because this ensures that the qualitative requirements for the urban and architectural design of buildings and open spaces are met.
A family of places
The winning team convinced the five property owners Alfred Müller, Credit Suisse Funds, Park Lane Zug, SBB and Thoba Immobilien with four theses: The LG area has a radiance (1) and historical depth (2). It connects people (3) and represents a kind of family of places (4). Its urban planning concept enables a very high density and at the same time creates attractive open spaces. The height development mediates between the track area in the east and the garden city in the west. A free space ring connects the subareas and thus enables easy orientation. In addition, old industrial
riebauten are preserved and become part of the new quarter.
New old train
Eliane Birchmeier, city councilor and head of the building department of the city of Zug, would like the quarter to open up: “We want a lively, tangible, very green quarter with a high quality of stay, in which inexpensive living and business are possible. A district that connects the city, including a new underpass for the railroad tracks, which will be good for the city. " There are already startups and large corporations that work from the LG area. But many Zug residents would hardly have the opportunity to enter the area if they didn't work here. "It is currently in a kind of deep sleep," says Birchmeier. That changes fundamentally with the presented project. "We are already seeing harbingers of how this area could be revitalized," says the city councilor. "For example in the Club Lounge & Gallery, in the Modi Lab Museum and especially in Freiruum, which the Zug population would no longer give up." The LG area has the chance of real change that meets the highest demands. A new piece of Zug will be created here, but it will still be Zug.

March 2021
This is how the paper energy system works

The Papieri area is to be operated in a CO2-neutral manner and to play an important role in the implementation of the desired 2000 watt society. The sophisticated energy system consists on the one hand of its own river power plant, which has been producing electricity since 1890. Now it has been upgraded with the latest technology as part of the site development. In addition, the water from the Lorze is used as a heat source and electricity production is supported by photovoltaic systems on the building roofs. Newly installed heat pumps complete the advanced energy system. Not only is the CO2 neutral
Real heating of the buildings in winter, but also the cooling of all residential and commercial units in summer.
Modern technology also sets the tone when it comes to living: All apartments are equipped with fiber optic connections and a smart living system. The control of the heating, ventilation, shading or also the light and energy management can be controlled via a centrally installed touch panel or via mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets.

March 2021
This is how blockchain is conquering the real estate industry

The term blockchain should be familiar by now. Most associate it with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. That's right, where blockchain is just the technology and Bitcoin is a resulting application. Even if the technology may seem complicated, the Swiss blockchain expert Michael Trübestein is certain: “Blockchain technology is comparable to the beginning of the Internet. It won't go away anymore. At the moment it is just uncertain how it will develop. "
First you have to understand how a blockchain works: It consists of individual blocks – each of which stores data such as transactions. A blockchain works decentrally. In other words, anyone around the world can join a blockchain – virtually via a computer, of course. Every single computer stores all and exactly the same blocks that form a chain. Each block has its own «DNA». A new computer will only be admitted if it has been checked and verified by all other computers. Once programmed on a blockchain, it cannot be changed retrospectively by a single computer. For this, all computers would have to be involved – and that is exactly what makes the blockchain so secure. If a single computer tries to change the blockchain, the chain is immediately interrupted and the culprit is excluded.
"Hello World" in Baar is the first property in the world to be tokenized
The possibilities of blockchain technology are enormous for the real estate industry, as Michael Trübestein says. He is professor for real estate management at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences, with a focus on real estate investment and real estate asset management. Numerous companies are currently researching possible areas of application. “Currently there are only a few applications, such as in the land register or in the investment / financing area. The world's first tokenization of a property, the “Hello World” property in Baar, ”says Trübestein, is an outstanding example. 20 percent of “Hello World” (CHF 3 million) of the property value was tokenized by the Zug-based company “Blockimmo” and sold to four investors.
The company “Crowdlitoken” has also specialized in real estate: the start-up founded in 2018 sees itself as a digital real estate bond. «Investors can participate in selected Swiss real estate from 100 francs / euro. After the investment, our users can put together their own real estate portfolio by placing their purchased bonds (Crowdlitokens “CRTs”) individually on the various Crowdlitoken properties, ”says Domenic Kurt, CEO of Crowdlitoken, explaining the concept. By participating in the real estate, the investors generate returns of up to 7 percent per year. You can either have this paid out monthly to your bank account or receive it in CRTs.
Access to the financial market is being liberalized
A bank does not have to be interposed for a digital bond, which is cheaper for the investor. Crowd
litoken already has 630 investors with a volume of 18 million CRTs. The real estate portfolio is constantly being expanded. The Swiss professional footballer Diego Benaglio is one of the prominent users of Crowdlitoken. Kurt defines what distinguishes Crowdlitoken from other companies that also rely on blockchain technology: “There is no comparable competitor who enables investors to invest such a low amount as an entry point for a stake in several properties. Investors can access the portal from their smartphone, where they can manage their entire investment. "
It is clear to both Trübestein and Kurt that blockchain has disruptive potential. The CEO of Crowdlitoken says: “Banks are becoming obsolete for investment products like ours. New sales channels are emerging and access to the financial market is being liberalized. " On the one hand, the digitization of the capital market is inherently completely disruptive, as this leads to an opening of the market. «There are no entry barriers; Entry sums are reduced. " On the other hand, the digitization of securities is inherently disruptive: “This means that values are no longer transferred via third parties. With blockchain-based securities, it is possible to send values without duplicating them, ”explains Kurt.
Trübestein adds: “Some applications such as crypto currencies have already influenced the world and the way market participants think. Nobody knows how the applications will develop in the future, but the advantages are already clearly visible. " The prerequisites are also in place in Switzerland: "We have target-oriented framework conditions and innovative companies here," says Trübestein. Cooperation between companies is important when implementing innovations. This is what happened, for example, with the “Hello World” property – the transaction results from a collaboration between Block-immo, Elea Labs and Swiss Crypto Tokens.
Michael Trübestein
Domenic Kurt
What is a token
Domenic Kurt, Crowdlitoken: A digital asset (token) based on the blockchain. It is a digital representation of a security. It contains property rights to the bond as well as the right to returns and represents a repayment obligation.
What is blockchain?
Michael Trübestein, Expert: A sequence (= chain) of information (= block). These are "time stamped" and are stored on several computers. This guarantees a high level of protection against forgery. There are also public and non-public systems. It can be used around the clock, seven days a week.
What can blockchain technology do better than a bank?
Domenic Kurt, Crowdlitoken: With blockchain-based securities it is possible to send values without duplicating them. It replaces the book of creditors and ensures that processes are designed and implemented in a leaner, more cost-effective and efficient manner.

March 2021
Unique office and commercial space on the Papieri site

Tailor-made office space and studios for every business idea
Spread over the entire area, an extraordinary variety of areas will emerge over the next few years, which are suitable for the most varied of uses and sizes of businesses. Do you want 5m high rooms with industrial charm or something more modern in a contemporary new building with a representative appearance? Do you only need a small retreat to fine-tune your latest ideas, or as an anchor tenant would you like to play a key role in the planning process for your new headquarters? Everything is possible on the Papieri site and, thanks to the state-of-the-art infrastructure with fiber optic connections, you don't have to compromise anywhere. Areas from 50 m2 to 5,000 m2. Move-in from the end of 2022.
Kesselhaus bistro with coworking.
Lively ground floors for small businesses and services
Lively ground floors are an important quality feature of any functioning quarter. Whether gastronomy, graphics office or physiotherapy, whether yoga room, flower shop or showroom: Innovative ideas with added value for residents and visitors are very welcome on the Papieri area. Areas from 100 to 1,000 m2. Move-in from the end of 2022.
Sustainability is a top priority
Thanks to our own hydropower plant on the Lorze and large-area photovoltaic systems on the roofs, all buildings are cooled and heated 100% CO2-neutrally. In addition, around a third of the electricity consumed is produced on site. All parking spaces are prepared for electromobility and are equipped as required. In addition, there are several quick charging stations available on the site. Don't own a car? Car and bike sharing offers ensure that you are still mobile.
Maisonette studios in the new building.
Become part of a lively neighborhood
As a tenant, you can benefit from the attractive framework conditions on the Papieri site. Do you need a room for a new employee for a few months? Book a micro apartment directly on the area! Fancy a business lunch? The future Kesselhaus bistro is only a stone's throw away. Or do you feel like jogging or jumping into the cool water to clear your head? The attractive location of the Papieri area directly on the Lorze, not far from Lake Zug and the idyllic Villette Park, offers you countless opportunities to switch off and recharge your batteries and then start over.
Get in contact with us and convince yourself of all the possibilities that are open to you here. Grow with us!

March 2021
"Best overall package thanks to the Spirit of Zug"

To person
Beat Bachmann is lic.oec. HSG and has management experience in the areas of business development, sales, finance and project management in domestic and foreign markets. His industry experience includes life sciences / medical technology, wholesale / sales of consumer goods, real estate, information and communication technology.
You are the head of the Business Contact Point in the Canton of Zug. How can you imagine a normal working day?
Beat Bachmann: Every day is different. As a "one-stop-shop", we primarily support and advise local companies on a wide variety of issues. This also includes support in finding office space. With over 100 company visits per year and by networking the companies with one another in the industry clusters, we help ensure that the companies can operate successfully in a business-friendly location. In addition, we support many companies each year in setting up in the canton of Zug.
How are the companies based in the canton with regard to the pandemic?
The Zug economy with its strong international ties is also affected and cannot escape the structural changes. The effects are to be mitigated thanks to the measures taken by the federal government and the canton. Due to the strong constitution of Zug's economy before the Corona crisis and the broad diversification, I estimate that the negative effects will be slightly lower compared to the rest of Switzerland. Nonetheless, our team was able to look after the same number of relocations in 2020 as in previous years.
In the Credit Suisse location ranking, Zug almost always ranks first – not least because of the low corporate income tax rate of 12 percent. What else do you offer more than other cantons?
We primarily offer the best overall package of excellent location conditions: These include long-term financial and political stability, tax and finance policy, great innovative ability, high availability of skilled workers in important industry clusters and efficient infrastructure. The fascinating living space and thus the quality of life are also very important. Last but not least, we often hear that economic friendliness – our “Spirit of Zug” – is very much valued.
What tasks does the Business Contact Point take on in site development?
In particular, we help ensure that the needs and requirements of the economy and companies are incorporated into the site developments. And when the properties are completed, we offer support in arranging the space for new tenants or buyers.
Does the site development show that the potential is being exhausted?
We are very happy that the landowners and site developers have made a significant contribution to the sustainable and qualitative development of the canton for decades. It is in line with the long-term strategy of the government council that Zug should remain an attractive place to live and live. There is still enough arable land. I therefore think that the canton of Zug can continue to develop in this way over many generations.
«Zug, Baar and Rotkreuz score points with the
Companies"
Several commercial buildings are under construction in the canton of Zug. In the wake of the pandemic, however, the trend is towards home offices. Still, are you confident that all of these projects can be brought to life?
Yes, I am confident that these surfaces will be absorbed. Switzerland and the canton of Zug are and will remain a leading international economic area. In the case of new settlements, the availability of ready-to-move-in space is an important location factor. It is difficult to estimate the long-term impact of Covid-19 on office space demand. The trend towards more home offices is countered by a trend towards more space per capita, as well as co-working spaces / business centers.
Besides Zug, which city in the canton is the most popular location for companies?
On the one hand, the Lorzen plain (valley communities) has had the most companies and jobs for decades. Since the canton records around 40% train commuters on working days, the proximity to train stations with IC and express train connections is playing an increasingly important role. Accordingly, along with Zug, Baar and Rotkreuz have been the most popular locations in recent years; Cham follows behind.
What makes the canton of Zug attractive as a place to live?
Zug offers a good international infrastructure, excellent schools and political stability. The standard of living is high and the living spaces are intact. There are lakes, mountains and diverse landscapes in the smallest of spaces. Zug therefore offers an outstanding quality of life and the proximity to central Switzerland and Zurich.
How do you assess the current demand on the housing market?
It is consistently high in the canton of Zug. At the same time, the vacancy rate in the canton of Zug is only increasing minimally.
How do you rate the building potential in the housing market?
Since we at the Business Contact Point primarily deal with companies and, accordingly, with office and commercial space, I am not an expert on the housing market. However, I observe that many apartments have been built unchanged for decades and that they are constantly finding residents. As the smallest full canton in Switzerland in terms of area and due to our sustainable growth strategy mentioned above, we will continue to see a high proportion of commuters in the future.

March 2021
The ZugerKB – the strong partner for professional real estate investors

In 2020, Zuger Kantonalbank financed over two thirds of all residential units approved for building in the canton of Zug and supported various important major projects in their development. This unrestricted market leadership of Zuger Kantonalbank in the financing of real estate is the result of a range of services that is consistently geared towards the specific needs of real estate investors.
What can professional investors count on at Zuger Kantonalbank?
Our extensive knowledge of the market
Zuger Kantonalbank knows the Zug real estate market better than any other bank. We continuously analyze the development of the real estate market in the canton of Zug very precisely and comprehensively. We work with leading providers of real estate market data. In addition, the close exchange with professional investors in the canton of Zug gives us a valuable view of the market. With this knowledge we can provide you with a lot of important information for the development and planning of your projects: Which apartment sizes are in demand? How is building activity developing? Or what prices are marketable? We answer these and other questions together with the investors in a strategic dialogue. An experienced team of ten specialists is available at Zuger Kantonalbank for this purpose.
Our reliability
The ZugerKB is committed to its customers in the long term, and has been for over 125 years. Our senior consultants are personally at your side and do everything in their power to ensure that your construction project is successfully implemented. With our expertise, we can quickly carry out an initial project assessment and outline possible financing in an early planning phase. As soon as the project becomes more specific, our short decision-making channels allow quick and needs-based financing offers: from the first planning loan to a comprehensive and flexible financing structure.
Our solution orientation
Your construction project is also our project. That is why professional advice is important to us. We make the processing and support of the project as easy as possible for you. In addition, we support promoters along the entire sales process, for example. In addition to the prior plausibility check of the planned sales prices, we offer various sales support. For example, our website www.zugerkb.ch/bauprojekte, which is accessible to everyone, informs interested apartment buyers about future projects and enables a direct link to the websites of the respective providers. We would be happy to show you further sales support in a personal conversation.
To person
Peter Bucher has been Head of Real Estate Investors at Zuger Kantonalbank and a member of the Board of Directors of a listed real estate fund since 2015. The passionate rider and jogger has a profound knowledge of the real estate market in the Zug region.

March 2021
Steiner celebrates the topping-out ceremony in the new industrial park in Basel

The new Werkarena business park in Basel celebrated topping-out on Friday. After construction began in autumn 2019, Steiner AG was able to complete the shell of the building complex, according to a media release.

The first tenants should be able to move in from autumn. The Werkarena is designed for different types of companies. The lower floors offer a ramp system for small vans especially for the storage and logistics industry. Tenants can also use the existing office, meeting and conference rooms jointly.

The upper floors offer a marketplace, a forum and rooms for new business models. They are primarily intended to address startups and small and medium-sized companies that are expanding their network and looking for a place for inspiration and exchange. The trade association Basel-Stadt and the Business Parc Reinach operate part of the commercial and business park, which particularly want to promote start-ups.

The Werkarena is being built near the border with Germany, the A3 motorway and the EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse airport. It is an initiative of the trade association Basel-Stadt , Immobilien Basel-Stadt , Business Parc Reinach , Steiner AG, smeyers AG and Picard Angst AG as well as other large companies.

March 2021
Basic report on the merger of Baden and Turgi is available

The basic and financial report on the opportunities and risks of a community merger , drawn up by seven working groups with representatives from Baden and Turgi, is now publicly available. According to a media release from the city of Baden, it can now be viewed publicly on the project website under Reports.

According to the press release, the seven working groups from Baden and Turgi examined topics such as authorities, administration, spatial planning, schooling, the local community, forest, factories, and the fire brigade. An independent auditing company analyzed the financial situation and the prospects for the merger.

In addition to the publication on the project website, several information events are planned. On April 7, the two ammen Markus Schneider and Adrian Schoop and the two women vice-men Regula Dell'Anno-Doppler and Astrid Barben will be discussing the knowledge gained in the first phase of the project in a live broadcast. After completing the basic work, those responsible for the project came to the conclusion that the chances of a merger outweigh the above.

On May 6th, a Thursday, and on May 22nd, a Saturday, representatives of the working groups will be available for talks at market stalls on Baden's Schlossbergplatz. On May 7th, the information stand will be set up in Bahnhofstrasse in Turgi.

On June 13, 2021, the citizens of both municipalities will vote on whether they want to commission the Baden City Council and the Turgi City Council to draw up a merger agreement in a second project phase. According to the media release, if both municipalities are yes, the merger agreement would come before the residents' council and the municipal assembly in autumn 2022. The second referendum would take place in March 2023. The merger would take place on January 1, 2024.

If only one of the municipalities voted no on June 13, 2021, the project would end.

March 2021
Andermatt Reuss continues to grow

Andermatt Swiss Alps AG notes a sustained high demand for residential property in the mountains. The company plans, builds and develops the year-round destination Andermatt. The new district of Andermatt Reuss will be built according to a master plan by 30 international architectural offices, it says on their website.

Six apartment houses are currently under construction, according to Andermatt Swiss Alps AG in a media release. 36 of the 46 apartments are already reserved. After the snow melts, the construction of two more houses will begin. In the past few months, several houses around the Piazza Gottardo have grown in height. Some of them were already sold out in the shell construction phase or only had a few apartments left.

In the coming months, the infrastructure base, known as the podium, on which the new buildings are located, will be expanded further. The next expansion will cover around 19,000 square meters and offer space for 16 houses. In addition, it is planned to start preparatory work for the third hotel in the summer.

March 2021
Dietikons Bahnhofsplatz is being redesigned with the SBB

The planned competition program for the redesign of the Dietikon station area can now be started. The Dietiker city council has approved a loan of 56,000 francs for the preparation of the "Bushof / Bahnhofplatz competition program" and the necessary clarifications, according to a message from the city chancellery. The contract for procedural support had been awarded to the Zurich consulting firm Eckhaus AG. In addition to upgrading the public space with quality of stay and a wheelchair accessible hub for public transport, an attractive location for living and working is to be created on the SBB site, according to the city of Dietikon about the project .

The city of Dietikon and the SBB jointly awarded an urban planning study contract for the Dietikon station area in 2019. The "in-depth study of the Dietikon station area" was exhibited in plans and models in November and December 2020 on the window front of the Dietikon town hall. The results report was also available on the Internet.

According to the plans of the city of Dietikon, the bus station is to be redesigned around two islands. This creates a largely traffic-calmed space in front of the train station, which is to be landscaped and planted with trees to create a lingering zone. According to the announcement, the SBB wants to develop a lively district from its parcels west of the track field. The station building is to be extended. Two construction sites for an office building and a complex with 200 apartments are planned on the parking lot.

March 2021
There are plans for the Rorschacher Feldmühle site

The Zurich-based project developer as well as total and general contractor Steiner is planning, together with the Steiner Investment Foundation , to develop the largely fallow land of the Feldmühle site in Rorschach. A sub-zone and a design plan, which was drawn up together with the city of Rorschach, will be available to the public from Monday until April 21 at the Office for Building and Urban Development. They can also be viewed on the city's website. An identical press release from Steiner and the city provides information on this.

On the 27,500 square meter inner-city area near the train station, 40 percent residential buildings for 760 people are planned, a total of 142 condominiums and 162 rental apartments. Commercial space is to be 20 percent or 9,000 square meters.

An underground car park, e-parking spaces and a car sharing provider are also planned. Individual, historically valuable and identity-creating buildings are retained and placed in context with new buildings. The original character of the former industrial plant should remain noticeable. Completion of the project is planned for 2025 if everything goes smoothly.

March 2021
Implenia is building tunnels in Norway

The entire Fornebubanen project includes the construction of a railway line from the Fornebu peninsula to connect to the Oslo subway. The construction work that began in December last year is expected to be completed in 2027. Under the project Fornebubanen has Implenia commissioned with the planning and construction of a tunnel for a distance of 2.3 kilometers, the construction and real estate company informed of Dietlikon in a release . The contract volume is stated there at 1.2 billion Norwegian kroner or the equivalent of 131 million francs.

Audun Aaland, Head of Tunneling and Country President Norway at Implenia, is quoted in the press release as quoted in the press release. In addition to the construction of the tunnel and its cross sections, Implenia will also build excavation pits and rock shafts for the Flytårnet and Fornebuporten stations.

"Those companies that invest the most in alternative fuel technologies and contribute to the electrification of machines and systems performed best in this competition," explains Grete Tvedt, project manager at Fornebubanen, in the press release. "The focus on sustainability seems to produce good solutions, not only in terms of environmental and climate protection, but also for the entire project."

The contract is to be signed after a ten-day objection period has expired. Construction work is scheduled to start in May of this year.

March 2021
Hächler rebuilds Spreitenbacher Waldhütte

Hächler AG from Wettingen has rebuilt the forest hut belonging to the municipality of Spreitenbach, which had become dilapidated due to subsidence. From spring onwards, the forest hut will again be available to citizens for festive occasions with 40 seats, according to the press release . There is a new hall with a fitted kitchen and an open fireplace both inside and outside.

The new building in the middle of the forest on Heitersberg became necessary because of subsidence. The forest hut was built in 1968 and renovated in 1990. According to the Hächler Group, the municipality of Spreitenbach decided to rebuild the popular forest hut due to the subsidence of the ground by around 20 centimeters. In May 2020, the timber construction department at Hächler AG was awarded the contract to build the new forest hut.

According to a report submitted by Günter Ebner, Head of Timber Construction at Hächler, the replacement building in timber element construction in the Neuenhof workshop was prefabricated in the same dimensions as the old hut. The finished wall elements with built-in electrical preparation and cutting of the roof components were produced in just three weeks. The shell assembly in the forest on the Heitersberg was carried out with millimeter precision using the company's own truck crane. The inner wall surfaces made of multi-layer panels in spruce and fir were protected from moisture during assembly. According to the Hächler report, only ecological and sustainable building materials were used.

The materials are technically state-of-the-art and enable a comfortable room climate as well as heat, cold and noise protection. The combination of vapor-permeable and multi-layer materials with good soundproofing properties would have made this concept of the forest hut a really great project, construction manager Ebner is quoted as saying.

21 cubic meters of domestic spruce wood, 45 cubic meters of mineral insulation and 450 square meters of multilayer wood panels were used for the supporting structure.

March 2021
Coop turns a Basel department store into a luxury hotel

The BâleHotels group, which belongs to Coop, is opening a 4-star boutique hotel in the middle of Basel's old town. The Hotel Märthof will open its doors on July 28, 2021. The renovation of the historic building began in 2019. Its neo-baroque facade will be preserved and will be combined with generous window fronts, according to a message from Coop . From 1983 a department store was housed in the complex.

In the Märthof there will be space for 68 high-quality rooms as well as the Bohemia restaurant with a spacious bar and a terrace directly on the market square. The hotel also has a fitness and wellness area, a banquet room and a roof terrace.

The BâleHotels Group is thus continuing to invest in the Basel location, according to Coop. The BâleHotels Group operates five hotels in Basel, Muttenz BL and Bern.

March 2021
Renovation of the Mandarin Oriental Palace Lucerne is making progress

The Hotel Palace Luzern is currently being extensively renovated. It is to be reopened next spring as the Mandarin Oriental Palace Lucerne.

The modernization is progressing, according to a press release . Invita Hospitality Projects, which belongs to Bündner Baulink AG , has now been commissioned to handle FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) and SOE (Small Operating Equipment).

Specifically, Invita will be responsible for purchasing loose furnishings for the 146 rooms and suites and redesigning the public areas. In the spa and fitness area, the Baulink subsidiary even received the entire specialist coordination contract. She also coordinates the redesign of the public areas, which include the catering area as well as conference and meeting rooms.

The interior design is meanwhile taken over by the London office Jestico & Whiles. Architecturally, the project is being accompanied by Iwan Bühler Architects from Lucerne.

The hotel is located in the middle of the city of Lucerne, directly on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

March 2021