immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: Switzerland

  • A milestone for Kapo Aarau

    A milestone for Kapo Aarau

    The construction project and the cost estimate for the new police building are available. The public hearing required by law has already been carried out and the building permit has also been issued. In the 3rd quarter of 2021, the Grand Council will decide on the construction loan and its implementation. "A police building is not a building like any other functional cantonal building," says Markus Richner from the Department of Economics and Internal Affairs in the canton of Aargau. "On the one hand, there are special requirements in terms of security, on the other hand, various special uses such as a laboratory, shooting rooms or a room for close combat training – also known as a dojo – must be guaranteed." The construction project is fundamentally undisputed. But as with any other large and complex project, keeping within budget was the greatest challenge. "We assume that the Grand Council will approve the project and the loan applied for in order to create good framework conditions for the further development of the cantonal police," said Richner.

    The police building is definite.

    Additional overall renovation
    After 30 years of operation in 7×24-hour mode, a complete renovation of the police command building is due. This applies in particular to the ventilation and sanitary facilities, including cables, as well as those for high and low current. In addition, structural adjustments are necessary due to changes in use. The improvements in the energetic area are also essential – especially the facade. According to Richner, the planning work was not significantly influenced by the corona pandemic: “All deadlines were met as planned. Due to the corona, many meetings did not take place on site, but rather virtually. I'm really looking forward to the moment when we can hand over the finished new building to the canton police. This is a milestone for the canton police. "

  • Timber construction project for the Rockwell area

    Timber construction project for the Rockwell area

    The Aarau Aeschbachquartier with 167 rental apartments, 92 condominiums, the Aeschbachhalle and the Oehlerpark as well as 4600 square meters of commercial space is being expanded. A large part of the Rockwell area, which belongs to the western part of Torfeld Süd, will be linked to the existing quarter. This is made possible because Rockwell Automation GmbH is largely giving up operations there. Only research and development will remain at the site.

    The owner of the area, Mobimo Management AG, invited five architecture firms to participate in a study. The specifications were defined as follows: The project is to be carried out in wood and meet the SNBS Gold standard. The client also wanted a clear contrast to the existing and planned properties in Torfeld Süd.
    Baumberger & Stegmeier Architects from Zurich emerged victorious from the process. In collaboration with Hoffmann Müller Landschaftsarchitekten and Pirmin Jung Holzbauingenieur, your project provides for an extension of the historic Hall 5. This is supplemented by a courtyard-like new building in the desired timber construction and a spacious square. This creates 110 barrier-free rental apartments of various sizes. In addition, alternative forms of living such as cluster apartments and five commercial units are planned. The timber construction is also consistently implemented inside the property. Several green areas and trees are distributed over the site and take up the vision of the Aeschbach district – that of an «Urban Village».

    The first groundbreaking should take place in mid-2023. Completion is scheduled for mid-2025.

  • Innovative quarter on the Henz site

    Innovative quarter on the Henz site

    At the Suhr Süd train station, an innovative quarter is being created that combines living and working. To this end, the Henz area – the former location of the steel trading company of the same name – is being completely converted. Condominiums and rental apartments are being built here, some of which can be moved around at the push of a button. The four to twelve storey buildings are characterized, among other things, by their open courtyards. The new quarter connects to the urban train station quarter in the north. In the south, according to the SSA Architekten AG commissioned with the project, the “scale transition to the Helgenfeld and Frohdörfli developments” is successful.
    59 condominiums and 143 rental apartments as well as studios and movements – these are furnished apartments with movable modules – as well as commercial, restaurant and service areas are to offer residents a meeting point for young and old after completion in autumn 2023. A 40 meter high building with 12 floors will be particularly striking. Here, on areas of 72 to 119 square meters, 2.5 to 5.5 room apartments with loggias are being built that are for sale. A restaurant and at least two should be on the ground floor
    Service companies settled
    will.

    The garden house has four floors. The condominiums are designed as 2.5 to 5.5 room apartments. With living areas of 68 to 129 m2, loggias, terraces or garden seats, the larger apartments are particularly suitable for families. The so-called courtyard building provides for 15 condominiums. Two more buildings with rental apartments and studios are being built along Gränicherstrasse and Bernstrasse West.

    A public square with a café and playground as well as various open spaces connect the area with the surrounding quarters via a network of paths. The property on the southwest corner of the area offers additional outside space. On the other side of the street, a green area belonging to the Henz area with a playground and pavilion is being built. Various commercial and service areas are planned on the ground floors of the building. These uses are intended to enliven and enrich the quarter. The studio areas allow flexible use of living and working.

    The sustainable energy strategy includes the supply of district heating from the Buchs waste incineration plant. The energy for the gentle cooling of the apartments in the high-rise is generated by solar energy. Photovoltaic systems on the site generate part of the household electricity. The parking garage is equipped with a charging infrastructure for e-bikes and electric cars.

    Condominiums can be configured online by their future residents. Visiting your own four walls in the future is already possible thanks to virtual reality (VR). Halter AG is continuously registering bookings for this offer: "Customers are thrilled with how well they can imagine the premises and, in particular, the view and the ceiling height of 2.60 to 2.80 meters," says Agathe Siffrin from Primus Property AG who takes care of sales for Halter AG. “The combination of VR, configurator and showroom is the optimal solution for showing apartments that will only be ready for occupancy in around two years”, she continues. As of today, over 50 percent of the condominiums are already reserved. The rental starts next year. Interested parties can register for the one to two-hour VR and advisory tour free of charge via the website.

  • A residential area to feel good

    A residential area to feel good

    With this project, Steiner AG is creating living space for young people, singles, couples, families and senior citizens. In the new quarter there will be attractive housing offers, private retreats and communal meeting areas. Numerous green areas with playgrounds and playgrounds invite you to spend a lot of time outside. At first glance, the many green and recreational areas as well as the bright apartments catch the eye: "We have placed great emphasis on open, well-lit interiors with a beautiful view, which ensure a pleasant, feel-good climate, peace and relaxation," says Stefan Gabriel, Team Leader Real Estate Development at Steiner AG. «The apartments are barrier-free, functional and can be flexibly furnished. Private gardens and community gardens invite you to linger and round off the multi-generational living in the quarter. "

    Here, a fallow industrial area is being transformed into a new place to live in the countryside. Existing listed buildings such as the barn and the Alte Post are carefully integrated and revitalized for living and common areas. This project aims to create a comfortable living area that will enrich Fischbach-Göslikon.

    Contemporary renovation
    Steiner AG sees its project as a symbol of the connection between the past and the future of Fischbach-Göslikon. “The listed barn is an important cultural and historical witness in the community and in the neighborhood – a building that needs to be preserved. The barn is being gently but modernly renovated and used for new purposes. A day-care center with 16 places and a workshop are to be built on the ground floor. A common room for various occasions, such as birthdays or family celebrations, is planned on the upper floor. The room can also be rented by the public, ”says Gabriel.

    Start of construction in 2022
    The start of construction on the first stage is scheduled for 2022. The overall project, which consists of three stages and should be completed by 2032, will one day include 165 residential units in 10 apartment buildings and 46 row single-family houses. Due to the current design plan, there must be an interval of four years between building applications. Gabriel concludes: “We are now expecting the building permit for the first stage to become legally binding. We are pleased about the excellent cooperation with the authorities and everyone involved. This is an important prerequisite for such a project to be implemented successfully. "

    The 165 residential units are all very bright.
  • An attractive future for Konnex

    An attractive future for Konnex

    The Konnex building at Brown-Boveri-Strasse 7 in Baden caused a sensation after its completion in 1995: the owners let the former showpiece of energy-saving construction cost around 150 million francs. Theo Hotz, who has since died, was responsible for the building, which at the time had 2,100 jobs.

    In 2015, the US company General Electric took over the energy division of Alstom Power and thus also the employees in Konnex. But at the beginning of 2020, the company announced its large-scale withdrawal from Switzerland. After the last employees moved out, the 42,500 square meter building has been vacant since March 31, 2021.

    But this is about to change: Under the patronage of Brandenberger + Ruosch AG (B + R), a new use as a multi-tenant building was developed on behalf of the owners. B + R is responsible for the project initiation through to marketing and commissioning vis-à-vis the owners. Theo Hotz Partner AG was again engaged as general planner.

    Although the building was designed for flexible use when it was built, some adjustments are required: “We are planning rental space from 550 square meters. These must be made individually accessible. In future, it should be possible to bill the ancillary costs individually for each area, ”explains Thomas Andermatt from B + R. From July 1st, the first tenants can move in for temporary use. For future long-term tenants, July 1, 2022 is the key date. Upon request, the project organization offers the planning and implementation of the individual tenant fit-out.

    A bird's eye view of the Konnex building.

    More attractive and livelier thanks to mix-use
    Externally, too, the Konnex needs to be refreshed: “The building envelope is being renovated and the surrounding area is being redesigned. We replace the flat roofs and equip them with photovoltaic systems. In addition, the sun protection must be improved, ”says Andermatt. The building is already connected to the district heating of the city of Baden; now district cooling is added. Andermatt: "This is how we can further increase energy efficiency."

    In a direct comparison to the development status of the ABB site in Zurich-Oerlikon, the site in Baden is currently lagging significantly, adds Andermatt. And: “In Oerlikon we have an attractive area with a strong combination of different types of living, work, schools, as well as catering and leisure options. The area in Baden is attractive – but today it lacks life outside of working hours, ”he is convinced. Konnex wants to make its contribution to a more attractive area design: "On the ground floor we are planning various catering units and service facilities such as a day-care center, shopping facilities and an outpatient clinic," Andermatt reveals.

    The project development takes place in close consultation with the city of Baden. In the future, the ABB site is to include a mix of commercial living, working and service offerings. The Konnex will keep the main focus in the area of office use, but make it as attractive as possible. "We are planning various green zones inside and outside the building." The first lease negotiations are already underway. For Andermatt it is clear: "The new Konnex and the entire ABB site in Baden will in future be at least as attractive as the one in Zurich-Oerlikon."

  • Swica and Steiner build in Aarau

    Swica and Steiner build in Aarau

    The health organization Swica from Winterthur and Steiner AG from Zurich want to realize a mixed-use development in the Aarau district of Scheibenschachen, Steiner informs in a press release . Three buildings with a total of around 90 rental and owner-occupied apartments as well as commercial space are to be erected on an area of around 4,000 square meters. A building worthy of protection that is already on the site will be integrated into the project, explains the Zurich-based project development, total and general contractor.

    In a first step, the two partner companies want to carry out a study contract for the development of a project plan. It should then be specified and submitted for approval. Construction is scheduled to start in 2023. The construction work should be completed by the end of 2025.

    The Scheibenschachen district, which is within walking distance of the historic center of Aarau, has developed "into a popular residential area" over the years, Steiner writes in the press release. According to her, the Zurich-based company has already built two more large residential developments in Scheibenschachen.

  • Homeownership achieves record prices

    Homeownership achieves record prices

    Those who want to live in their own four walls have to dig deeper into their pockets. The prices for owner-occupied residential property rose to new record levels in the second quarter, informs Raiffeisen Switzerland in a statement on the current transaction index of the cooperative banking group. "Despite the rampant pandemic and historical economic upheavals, the desire for home ownership remains strong," Martin Neff is quoted as saying. For the chief economist at Raiffeisen Switzerland, the “unchecked price increases” are signs of a “very tight supply” demand for residential property.

    The prices for single-family homes in the second quarter of 2021 were 2.1 percent above those of the previous quarter, the announcement further explains. In a year-on-year comparison, prices rose by 6.1 percent. An increase of 2.4 percent compared to the previous quarter was observed for condominiums. In a year-on-year comparison, prices were 4.9 percent higher.

    In terms of regions, the analysts at Raiffeisen Switzerland recorded the highest year-on-year increase in single-family homes with 11.3 percent in the Lake Geneva region. In Eastern Switzerland and Central Switzerland, too, prices were more than 9 percent higher than in the same quarter of the previous year. The prices for condominiums rose within the year by 7.9 and 7.0 percent respectively in the regions of southern Switzerland and Bern. Far higher prices than in the previous year were achieved for condominiums, especially in tourist communities.

  • Zurich's Manufakt8048 business park is open

    Zurich's Manufakt8048 business park is open

    The Manufakt8048 business park has been completed. On Thursday, the building owner Swisscanto , the developer and general contractor Steiner AG , architects, project partners and future tenants celebrated the opening of the new modular building complex in Zurich-Altstetten. In a media release , Steiner AG also announced that in the coming years, with Manufakt8820 and Manufakt8409, two more industrial parks will be built in Wädenswil ZH and Winterthur based on the same concept.

    Steiner AG describes its special manufacturing concept as sustainable and multidimensional. It offers shared meeting rooms that can be used as required, as well as so-called flex offices and meeting areas. In order to make commercial rents affordable, especially for young companies, Steiner AG has improved space efficiency with areas that can be used jointly, for example. This can be "implemented well in reception areas, meeting rooms or lounges", says her Head Real Estate, Michael Schiltknecht. This is particularly interesting for start-ups, "who don't have to rent everything right away".

    As it is said, the Manufakt8048 commercial property benefits from the attractive environment in the “up-and-coming urban quarter” in the west of Zurich in the immediate vicinity of the Zurich-Altstetten train station. It thus offers "ideal conditions for companies from a wide variety of industries".

  • ImmoScout24 relies on iptiQ

    ImmoScout24 relies on iptiQ

    ImmoScout24 wants to offer customers residing in Germany a rental loss insurance. To this end, the real estate platform of the Scout24 Group is working together with the white label insurer iptiQ from Swiss Re , the Zurich insurance group informs in a message . The offer launched under the ImmoScout24 brand covers the complete or partial loss of up to six monthly rents including ancillary costs. The insurance can be taken out and managed online.

    "With the digital ImmoScout24 loss of rent insurance, we are providing private landlords with an innovative service that makes renting safer for them," Ralf Weitz, Managing Director of ImmoScout24, is quoted in the press release. This could be particularly relevant in times of the pandemic, says Weitz. ImmoSout24 takes on the role of the registered agent in the partnership.

    IptiQ is responsible for covering all insurance-related aspects of the community offer, is further explained in the communication. "With ImmoScout24 we have the ideal partner in Germany to be able to offer customers tailor-made insurance products in the household sector online exactly when it matters", Andreas Schertzinger, CEO iptiQ EMEA P&C, is quoted there.

    The Scout24 group belongs to the insurance group Mobiliar and the media group Ringier . In addition to the real estate platform ImmoScout24, the network of online marketplaces operates the platforms AutoScout24, FinanceScout24, MotoScout24, the classified ads platform Anibis and the marketer Scout24 Advertising.

  • Solothurn economic barometer

    Solothurn economic barometer

    The evaluation of the first-time survey among the members of the Solothurn Chamber of Commerce and the Cantonal Solothurn Trade Association on the Solothurn Economic Barometer shows that the economy is returning to the growth zone. There are big differences in the industries. The sectors affected by the lockdowns are suffering, but since the beginning of the year large parts of industry and economic services have returned to a steep growth path.

  • House of Winterthur wants to support tourism in the region

    House of Winterthur wants to support tourism in the region

    After an outstanding 2019, tourism was hit hard by the pandemic last year, explained House of Winterthur in a communication to the General Assembly on June 24th. The promotion of the location has also felt this: its income from city taxes and the sale of city guides and other services was 518,000 francs lower than the previous year, writes House of Winterthur. With income of around 2.9 million Swiss francs and the reversal of a provision of 200,000 Swiss francs, the location support posted a loss of 147,000 Swiss francs in the year under review.

    The work of the location promotion is ensured by cantonal funds, explains House of Winterthur in the communication. Specifically, the cantonal council has decided to make a total of 840,000 francs available for location funding over a period of three years. The money is to be used for the recovery of tourism in the Winterthur region.

    "Even during the crisis it became clear: Winterthur is full of surprising success stories – thanks to creativity, adaptability and confidence", House of Winterthur director Samuel Roth is quoted in the press release. "One of the tasks of the House of Winterthur is to track down these stories and tell them on."

    Samuel Roth took over the management of House of Winterthur on August 1st last year after founding director Michael Domeisen left. With Roger Graber and Catherine Zimpfer, two more new members joined the management of House of Winterthur in 2020.

  • Emmi lays the foundation stone for a new cheese dairy

    Emmi lays the foundation stone for a new cheese dairy

    Emmi is building a modern cheese factory at its location in Emmen for 50 million francs. It will replace the existing cheese dairy building, which is over 40 years old. As stated in a press release , this new building is one of the most important investment projects in Emmi's history. On Thursday, the milk processor celebrated the start of the new project phase with the laying of the foundation stone: the building construction is being tackled. In addition to representatives from Emmi and the project partners, Council of States Damian Müller and Lucerne Councilor Fabian Peter were also present.

    Preparatory work in the area began in November. The groundbreaking took place in January. The building should be ready by the end of the year. Commissioning – initially parallel to the existing cheese dairy – is planned for the end of 2022. The new dairy offers "space for highly professional and resource-saving cheese production," the message continues. In addition, it creates additional capacities in line with the long-term growth plans.

    The Emmi Group has 25 production facilities in Switzerland. The company also has 14 subsidiaries abroad. It is also represented with production facilities in eight of them. Emmi exports its products from Switzerland to around 60 countries. "With regional milk from Central Switzerland, we will be producing even more high-quality cheeses such as our Lucerne cream cheese for the whole world in the future," said CEO Marc Heim.

    "Emmi's investments show great confidence in the regional economy and in the canton of Lucerne as a location," government councilor Peter is quoted as saying. “As an important employer, she also serves as a role model in many ways. We are proud to have Emmi in our region. "

  • City of Schlieren adopts economic strategy

    City of Schlieren adopts economic strategy

    Schlieren has developed into a strong business location just outside the gates over the past two decades. There are now 1162 companies based in the city. There are 18,500 jobs for every 19,500 inhabitants. Schlieren now ranks 20th out of 132 municipalities in the city ranking of “Bilanz”.

    The city wants to expand this strong position. This emerges from the economic strategy 2021-2025 , which was drawn up with over 80 business representatives and has now been presented .

    Schlieren starts with its existing strengths. In the field of biotech around the Bio-Technopark Schlieren , the city is to further expand its international position. On a national level, Schlieren wants to position itself even more strongly as a location for start-ups. In Schlieren, clusters in the field of medtech and health care and in ICT are also to be added to match these two topics. Schlieren wants to establish itself as a node in networks that extend far beyond the city.

    This also requires increased communication. In the future, the city also wants to communicate in English and French on selected topics.

    But the city also wants to maintain its other clusters. For example, a service agreement with Shopping Schlieren is planned in the purchasing area. Important actors are to be retained and niche providers to settle in Schlieren. The automobile cluster should also be looked after and preserved.

    A good location needs space: Areas such as the Gasi, Geistlich-Areal, Wagi, Rüti and others should receive tailor-made development strategies. A good location also needs people: the leisure and service offers should be expanded.

    The city wants to further develop the location with partners such as Limmatstadt AG and the Greater Zurich Area. An economic council made up of representatives of the companies in Schlieren is also planned to support the city in the further development of the location. There will also be a change at the top of location promotion: Albert Schweizer built it up in over two decades. He will retire in around five years; the successor should be prepared in the next few years.

  • Vial industrial park in Domat / Ems is expanded

    Vial industrial park in Domat / Ems is expanded

    The former sawmill area in Domat / Ems has been expanded into an industrial park since 2017. Hamilton was the first company to settle there in 2017. The corner parcel in the northeast of the area is now to be sold to LJH Immo AG, the government of the canton of Graubünden informs in a message . It has already approved the draft of a corresponding sales contract for the Domat / Ems community for an area of 6,477 square meters.

    LJH Immo AG is preparing the plot for the settlement of a total of four companies. The real estate company will invest between CHF 12 million and CHF 15 million for this, according to the announcement. According to her, the companies not named are four export-oriented companies "which develop profitable, innovative high-tech products or systems".

    By settling on this parcel, the workforce of the four companies is to be increased from 85 to 140 in the medium to long term, thus creating around 55 full-time positions. "The direct and indirect added value generated by the project is of great economic importance for the canton of Graubünden," emphasizes the government in the communication.

  • Army real estate only uses renewables

    Army real estate only uses renewables

    The properties of the Federal Department of Defense, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS ) used by the armed forces only use electricity that is generated from renewable energies, especially hydropower, the DDPS informs in a message on the current sustainability report of the Federal Office of Armaments (armasuisse ). According to her, the CO2 emissions caused by the VBS properties have also been significantly reduced compared to the previous year. Specifically, 36,600 tons of CO2 were emitted last year.

    The current sustainability report shows "how armasuisse real estate builds resource-intensive military infrastructures sustainably and operates them economically over the entire life cycle," the press release goes on to say. The report also provides important key figures. One example is the share of expenditure on planning and construction work that is attributable to local suppliers. It is estimated in the communication at 85 percent.

    In addition, the report contains a conversation with division general Thomas Kaiser, is further explained in the communication. In this, the head of the army's logistics base presented “his vision of a sustainable future for the army's logistics base”.

  • Swiss keep moving

    Swiss keep moving

    Almost 20 percent of the population moved within the last 18 months, homegate.ch informed in a message. This rate has been observed over the last year and a half, it says there. The pandemic did not reduce the attractiveness of a move. The digital real estate marketplace from TX Group is based on a relocation study it carried out.

    According to the results of the study, Switzerland is still “a land of tenants”, the communication further explains. Over seven out of ten people moved into a rented apartment. Homgate.ch observed moving in together with the partner, professional reasons and dissatisfaction with the current apartment as the most common reasons for moving. The most important criteria for the selection of the new domicile were mentioned by those questioned for the study of the price, the number of rooms and the location. Accessibility, old buildings or the Minergie standard, on the other hand, were only important to a minority in the single-digit range.

    The pandemic had "no lasting effects on moving behavior," writes homegate.ch. However, two thirds of those surveyed claimed that the pandemic had an impact on their relocation plans. The communication specifically mentions problems with viewings and postponing a planned move. In addition, 12 percent of those moving because of the lockdown moved to their partner.

  • Wunderbrücke is officially opened

    Wunderbrücke is officially opened

    The Wunderbrücke is a central project of the new Technorama adventure park in Winterthur. The 130-meter-long structure with its five percent gradient will be officially opened with a ceremony on June 19, according to a media release. It was designed by Conzett Bronzini Partner from Chur.

    Wunderbrücke and the redesign of the Technorama Park were initiated by the Swiss Association of Engineers and Architects (SIA ) around ten years ago. The area has been open to the public since April. Natural phenomena can be experienced with all the senses in the new outdoor area and experienced first hand. That makes the Technorama a versatile excursion destination, according to the SIA on the development of the park . The park was designed by the Winterthur office Krebs und Herde landscape architects.

    The background to the project is a debate about civil engineering artists without a museum. The "Neue Zürcher Zeitung" took up the topic in 2009. There is a museum for everything, she wrote at the time, except for the achievements that are central to the Swiss brand: bridges, tunnels and buildings. Today, the SIA can present itself to hundreds of thousands of visitors every year in the Technorama Park, including numerous school children. "We are pleased about a prime example of interdisciplinary cooperation that playfully inspires the youngsters for the technical professions and sensitizes several hundred thousand visitors annually to a high-quality building culture", SIA President Peter Dransfeld is quoted in a media release.

    Around 30 large exhibits can be seen and experienced on the exhibition grounds in Winterthur. According to the SIA, the “Falling Water” exhibit will cause a sensation. The Wunderbrücke plays a central role in this. A suspension bridge with dynamic vibration behavior that visitors can control will also be added.

    The Zurich Government Councilor Martin Neukom, the City President of Winterthur Michael Künzle and the President of the Board of Trustees Werner Inderbitzin will pay tribute to the Technorama at the ceremony for invited guests. Technorama director Thorsten-D. Künnemann and the Technorama staff will guide you through the event with experiments, live music and announced surprises.

  • Steiner AG builds new quarters in Fischbach-Göslikon

    Steiner AG builds new quarters in Fischbach-Göslikon

    When the building permit becomes legally binding, construction work for the Widacher project in Fischbach-Göslikon can begin in summer. The shares the project developer Steiner AG with now.

    As part of this construction project, a fallow industrial area will be converted into "a new place to live in the countryside". Listed buildings such as the barn and the Alte Post would be carefully integrated and revitalized for living and common areas.

    The start of construction on the first of three stages is scheduled for summer 2022. Initially, 16 terraced houses and 42 apartments will be built to the Minergie standard. A total of 165 residential units are to be built there in ten multi-family houses and 46 single-family houses.

  • Implenia hands over the Dialogplatz in Winterthur

    Implenia hands over the Dialogplatz in Winterthur

    Implenia ceremoniously handed over the dialogue space, which was completed in spring, to the city of Winterthur on June 8th, the real estate company informed in a message . The name of the approximately 5,800 square meter open space in the Lokstadt district of Winterthur goes back to a wage dispute at Sulzer that was settled in 1937. Implenia writes that in the future, the dialogue space should be a central place for meeting and exchanging ideas. "We are very pleased to be able to present the residents of Lokstadt and all Winterthur residents with a great town square and meeting place that can be used in many ways", Adrian Wyss, Head of Implenia's Real Estate Division, is quoted in the press release.

    Implenia developed the dialogue space, which is part of the 21,000 square meter open space in the Lokstadt district, in collaboration with the city of Winterthur. In the course of the takeover, the city will gradually be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the square. Implenia is contributing 6 million francs for future maintenance and renovation costs.

    The square, which is located in a new pedestrian zone, offers a variety of opportunities to stay, meet and play, is further explained in the communication. Specifically, Implenia lists a playground, shady trees, a system for roller sports equipment (pump track), a drinking fountain, seating and a catering area.

  • The borders disappear in the Limmatstadt

    The borders disappear in the Limmatstadt

    The customer magazine " blue " of the electricity works of the canton of Zurich ( EKZ ) dedicates its cover story to the development of the Limmatstadt. In conversation in Schlieren and at urban development centers along the Limmattalbahn, the managing director of the Limmatstadt AG location promotion company, Jasmina Ritz, explains the idea behind the project. “A city is emerging” is the title of the latest edition of “blue” with a photo of Jasmina Ritz on the roof of the Bio-Technopark in Schlieren. "Here we are in the epicenter of the urban development of the Limmatstadt," Ritz is quoted as saying. And: "From up here you can no longer see any boundaries."

    With this sentence and in the long conversation with the author Luc Descombes, the person responsible at Limmatstadt AG makes it clear that the advantages and strengths of the individual communities should be brought together in the common vision of the Limmatstadt. "That is why a common self-image is so central," Ritz is quoted as saying. According to the text of “blue”, at least 200,000 people live in the catchment area of the so-called Limmatstadt, depending on the perspective. In the opinion of Jasmina Ritz, this deserves “a strong joint appearance and powerful location marketing”.

    In the main story published under the second title "Vision Limmatstadt", the examples of the communities of Schlieren and Dietikon show the emergence of a "liveable city" across the canton border into Aargauische Spreitenbach. The importance of the Limmattalbahn, which is currently under construction, for regional merging is emphasized. Jasmina Ritz says: “Wherever a tram goes, urban space is created. The Limmattalbahn is crucial for the positive development of the region. "

    The EKZ's commitment in this area is made clear in "blue" with the company projects. The Dietikon EKZ hydropower station supplies 4,500 households, the Oberengstringen substation has been providing an additional 80 megawatts since 2020 and the EKZ has been laying dozens of kilometers of new lines and conduits for the Limmat Valley Railway since 2020 to strengthen the future power grid in the Limmat city. "Blue" appears twice a year with a circulation of 300,000 copies throughout the canton. The magazine goes to every household.

  • Cosmos construction project goes to real estate fund

    Cosmos construction project goes to real estate fund

    Mobimo is selling its building-approved Cosmos project in Dübendorf to a real estate fund managed by Credit Suisse , the Lucerne real estate company informed in apress release . In 2000, Mobimo acquired the corresponding property on Zürichstrasse. Instead of the commercial building that existed at the time, four new buildings with a total of around 170 apartments as well as areas that can be used for offices, businesses or sales are to be built.

    Construction work is scheduled to start this month. In the late summer of 2023, the buildings complying with the Sustainable Building Switzerland Standard (SNBS Gold) and the greenproperty seal of approval should be completed. Among other things, a photovoltaic system and a geothermal probe will be installed, explains Mobimo.

    “We have developed a convincing new building project from an investment property with potential,” Mobimo CEO Daniel Ducrey is quoted in the press release. "Cosmos is a good example of the interaction between active portfolio management and internal development competence."

  • Implenia impresses with sustainability

    Implenia impresses with sustainability

    In the current sustainability ranking from Sustainalytics , Implenia has further expanded its leading position in environmental, social and governance matters, the real estate company from Dietlikon informs in a press release . In concrete terms, Implenia had increased its overall rating by 5 to 84 points compared to the previous year. Implenia also took the top spot among a total of 66 real estate companies examined in the three individual sub-categories of environment, social affairs and governance.

    “This outstanding result confirms our ambitious path and we will continue to pursue it with our new sustainability goals”, Anita Eckardt, Chairwoman of Implenia’s Sustainability Committee, is quoted in the press release. “From CO2 reduction on our path to climate neutrality to the highest standards of a sustainable supply chain and circular economy, the twelve goals cover a broad spectrum of what we want to achieve in the coming years.” Implenia is making the full Sustainalytics report available on the Internet Disposal.

    Sustainalytics, based in Amsterdam, specializes in assessing the sustainability of listed companies. The evaluation is also of financial importance. More and more investors and institutional investors are showing interest in whether sustainability strategies are effective and affect supply chains and product delivery. The annual appraisal gives you an independent assessment of your investments. Implenia is currently receiving “more favorable financing terms” due to its very good rating, writes the real estate company.

  • Hächler Group makes Baden city tower future-proof

    Hächler Group makes Baden city tower future-proof

    Specialists in the renovation of historic and listed buildings belonging to the Hächler Group have repaired water damage to the city tower in Baden. According to a press release from the Wettingen construction company, the damage was caused at a height of 30 meters and the entire tufa brickwork was saturated with water.

    In order to avoid such water damage in the future after the repair is complete, the most modern technology will be used on the historic building. Every year there will be a control of the drains by means of a drone, it says in the message.

    Reto Schwitter – foreman, remodeling and renovation of historic buildings at Hächler – reports on the course of events in the media release. On December 22nd, the remodeling and renovation department of Hächler AG received an emergency message with the information that pieces of plaster were falling from the Baden city tower. The damage was examined the next morning with the help of the turntable ladders of the Baden fire brigade at a height of 30 meters.

    The damaged area had been cleaned, but the heavy snow and rain in the following three weeks, followed by night frost, worsened the damage and more pieces of plaster fell off, reports the foreman. A protective net had to be installed in January. In March, the Hächler specialists scaffolded the city tower for the renovation of historical and listed buildings. The historic building material that was soaked in water was identified. After a period of drying out, it was possible to rebuild, reports Polier Schwitter. Now a new gutter has to be installed and then it is necessary to regularly check the Baden city tower at a height of 30 meters – by drone.

  • Umwelt Arena implements lighthouse project in Urdorf

    Umwelt Arena implements lighthouse project in Urdorf

    The development of the Umwelt Arena in Männedorf received the Watt d'or 2021 from the Federal Office of Energy. The two multi-family houses in Männedorf can cover their energy needs with photovoltaic modules on the facades and roofs and two wind turbines. This means that your residents are exempt from electricity and heating costs up to an upper limit.

    The Umwelt Arena is now following up with a new lighthouse project. In Urdorf, three more energy self-sufficient residential buildings are to be realized, is explained in an article on energeia + . The blog of the Federal Office of Energy will accompany the implementation of the project in a loose series of articles. In the first article, Walter Schmid, investor and initiator of the Umwelt Arena, explains the planned development.

    As in Männedorf, the buildings in Urdorf will also produce their own energy, explains Schmid. “Photovoltaic systems are installed on the facade, on the flat roof or the entrance to the underground car park.” Excess energy produced in summer is to be fed into the gas network and withdrawn in winter. In order to convert the gas back into electricity and heat, a hybrid box will be installed in the basement of the building. The tenants of the residential buildings are to be exempted from electricity and heating costs up to an upper limit.

    In the brochure for the project, the development in Urdorf is referred to as a “national future project”. Because the project should show "that it is worthwhile to build energy-efficiently and win everyone in the process," says the initiator Schmid. Männedorf has already shown that the idea works, that the larger project in Urdorf should "make it even cheaper, more economical". Because this is the only way to attract imitators.

  • Renggli AG wins the Prix SVC Central Switzerland 2020

    Renggli AG wins the Prix SVC Central Switzerland 2020

    First place for Renggli AG from Schötz

    With over 95 years of experience as a timber construction partner and general contractor, Renggli AG offers energy-efficient and sustainable timber construction projects in modern architecture – for multi-storey residential buildings, commercial and public buildings as well as for single-family houses. Jury President Urban Camenzind, Economic Director of Canton Uri, paid tribute to the winner in his laudation: “Renggli AG is known for energy-efficient construction with wood and is one of the MINER-GIE pioneers in Switzerland and beyond. The family company already lived sustainability and put it into practice when this word was often still theory. Renggli AG is characterized by innovation and a pioneering spirit. This means that the company is also doing business successfully and is well equipped for the future. " Renggli AG employs over 230 people at its locations in Sursee, Schötz, Granges-Paccot, Ascona and Winterthur. The family company is run in the fourth generation by Max Renggli, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    Elbatech AG and Shiptec AG in second and third place

    Second place goes to Elbatech AG. It installs modern tunnel radio systems for the railway operators throughout Switzerland and thus ensures uninterrupted communication for all travelers. The design and assembly of traction power systems and diamond drilling are other important areas of activity. The company is characterized by innovative in-house developments and total solutions. Elbatech was founded in 2007, is managed by Florian Reichmuth and Stefan Franzen and employs 45 people.

    Bronze went to Shiptec AG, the leading Swiss company in the shipbuilding industry. With its shipyard and an engineering office, the company provides technical services in the areas of ship design and engineering, shipbuilding, ship revisions, conversions and ship maintenance for professional and private shipping. Shiptec AG employs over 70 people and is managed by Ruedi Stadelmann.

    Awards for Allvisual AG, Gübelin and Seiler Käserei AG

    Allvisual AG from Steinhausen, an internationally active, owner-managed consulting company in the areas of digital transformation, product lifecycle management, smart manufacturing / service and 3D visualization, and the world-renowned family company Gübelin from Lucerne, known for its gemstone expertise and luxury, also received awards Watches, as well as the Seiler Käserei AG from Giswil, which has been producing excellent cheese specialties as an independent, owner-managed traditional company since 1928.

    Prix SVC – an opportunity to put SMEs in the limelight

    The sponsor and initiator of the Prix SVC Zentralschweiz is the Swiss Venture Club (SVC), an independent, not-for-profit association for the promotion and support of SMEs in Switzerland. Christoph Baggenstos, SVC Regional Manager Central Switzerland, emphasizes: “We award companies that belong to Switzerland's SME elite. Our focus is on exemplary companies that create jobs and help shape the Swiss economy. With the Prix SVC we offer these companies a platform to show their success to the outside world. Last but not least, the attention that our award winners receive from the Prix SVC should also be an incentive for other companies. "

  • Steiner Office Barometer: Switzerland loves working from home

    Steiner Office Barometer: Switzerland loves working from home

    With the decline in the number of corona cases, the Federal Council could soon lift the home office obligation. Reason to cheer or to be annoyed? As the Steiner study carried out in German and French-speaking Switzerland with over 1,000 employees shows, 9 out of 10 respondents who currently work at home or at least theoretically could do so are in favor of home office. However, many miss the social contacts in the office.

    Bosses discover the advantages of working from home

    It is noticeable that 39% of the respondents had the opportunity to work from home even before they were required to work from home. Currently 48% only work slightly more from home – with a maximum potential of 56%. There is a tendency for more people to work at home in cities and in large companies than in rural areas and in SMEs. In particular, employees with a managerial function (51%) or from company management (61%) currently work from home and obviously appreciate the advantages. Before the pandemic, it was just under 42% and 37%, respectively.

    Since younger people in particular want to work more at home, a home office offer could become an advantage in recruiting in the future. Of those surveyed who could work from home, two thirds (65%) work for employers in the city. Four out of five (81%) work for employers who have their own office space.

    Employees want the best of both worlds

    Home office is a great need. Nevertheless, many respondents do not want to do without a fixed office workplace. Two thirds have one today. A central location of the workplace remains important for the majority of the respondents, even if they do not commute every day. Many employees want the best of both worlds: the freedom of the home office, but still the familiar environment in the office.

    What does this desire mean for the construction of new residential and commercial buildings, in the city as well as in the country? Central, urban workplaces will continue to be in demand, while offices in peripheral locations will probably meet with less demand. Even more creative solutions will be required from planners in the future. On the other hand, thanks to the acceptance of home offices, peripheral places of residence could also become more attractive.

    Steiner is already planning a home office

    When developing real estate projects, Steiner takes social trends into account and responds to the social challenges of the future with innovative building solutions and forms of living. "In residential construction, we are responding to the desire for home office with new ideas," emphasizes Michael Schiltknecht, Head Real Estate at Steiner AG.

    Michael Schiltknecht is convinced that Steiner already offers solutions and tailor-made answers to the requirements of the future in the office and commercial sector: “We have developed the sustainable and multi-dimensional“ Manufakt ”concept, which, in addition to modularly usable rooms, offers an offer of divided and as required required meeting rooms, flex offices and meeting areas ».

  • Federal government is satisfied with the law on second homes

    Federal government is satisfied with the law on second homes

    The population accepted the second home initiative in 2012. This means that no additional holiday apartments or houses may be built in municipalities with more than 20 percent second homes. The Federal Council has now carried out an impact analysis of the Second Homes Act. He comes to the conclusion that the law does not need to be adjusted.

    In its communication, however, the Federal Council emphasizes that it is still too early to conclusively assess the Second Homes Act. For example, there would still be transition effects. Certain construction projects were approved before the law came into force. Overall, the land consumption for newly built second homes in all affected municipalities decreased by around a third from 2013 to 2018 compared to 2007 to 2012. However, the law on second homes did not result in zero growth.

    The federal government does not see any need for reform in the Second Homes Act. However, he sees a need for action in terms of enforcement, the knowledge base and the key terms of the accommodation industry. For example, the tasks and competencies of the cantons are to be specified. In 2025, the federal government will re-examine the effects of the law.

    In a media release, the Intergovernmental Conference of the Mountain Cantons is disappointed with the Federal Council's decision. It is known that the law on second homes is "largely complex in terms of content and not optimally formulated". This leads to problems in the execution. Accordingly, according to the mountain cantons, the law could be improved. You now want to work towards adjustments in parliament. They also emphasize that the impact analysis was carried out two years later than the law provides. If it had already gone that way, the findings from the corona pandemic should have been incorporated.

  • JED wins design award

    JED wins design award

    The real estate development JED in Schlieren was able to convince in an international architecture competition. She received the Silver Award at theA 'Design Award and Comeptition . As part of the global competition, 2094 winners from 108 countries and in 104 design disciplines were chosen.

    JED was honored for its interior design, according to a message from real estate developer Swiss Prime Site on LinkedIn. In addition to Swiss Prime Site, the Zurich architecture firm Evolution Design is behind the design.

    JED was created on the former printing center of the “Neue Zürcher Zeitung” in Schlieren. The development offers space for workplaces and events. JED sees itself as a “center for knowledge transfer, innovation and entrepreneurship”.

    "The project shows how industrial premises can be transformed into attractive destinations that revitalize local (economic) activities and create a platform for entrepreneurship," said the jury of the A 'Design Award and Competition. The architectural concept emphasizes the special features of the individual halls and gives the original structure a contemporary profile. The jury also praised the rooms in such a way that they enable knowledge transfer, creativity and innovation.

    The aim of the A 'Design Award and Competition is to make special architectural projects from all over the world known. This is intended to inspire new projects.

  • "Gupfengarten" in Niederweningen receives building permit

    "Gupfengarten" in Niederweningen receives building permit

    The building permit for the Gupfengarten residential development in Niederweningen is now legally binding. According to a media release, construction on a well-developed area south of the 3,000-inhabitant village should begin in late summer. The project is being implemented by the Zurich project developer Steiner AG on behalf of Evostate Immobilien AG.

    The Gupfengarten project comprises 36 single-family houses and three multi-family houses with 21 condominiums. It should be completed by the 3rd quarter of 2023. Graf Biscioni Architekten AG is responsible for the architecture.

    Othmar Ulrich, Head of Real Estate Development in the Eastern Region at Steiner AG, points out in the press release that the marketing of the apartments began last year. "With the legally binding building permit, another important milestone has now been reached," said Ulrich. The 36 row single-family houses with 4.5 and 5.5 rooms have their own private garden and are child-friendly. The 21 condominium apartments with 2.5 to 4.5 rooms have a covered outdoor area. The traffic-free settlement has an underground car park with direct access to the residential units.

    The Gupfengarten project focuses on sustainability with heat generation using a heat pump and photovoltaic system. The building envelope is made of wood for optimal thermal insulation values. The Gupfengarten development is within walking distance of the train station. From there it is 35 minutes by train to the center of Zurich.

  • Single-family houses are very popular even in times of crisis

    Single-family houses are very popular even in times of crisis

    The speed at which sellers have been able to sell their homes over the past year has varied widely across regions. While single-family houses in the greater Zurich area became even scarcer and were sold within an average of 43 days, it took 100 days longer in Ticino. This is the finding of the Swiss Real Estate Institute of the Zurich School of Economics (HWZ) and the online real estate marketplace Homegate in their biannual evaluation of real estate advertisements on the Internet.

    Accordingly, the average advertisement time for single-family houses on the leading online real estate portals in Switzerland rose by 26 percent in 2020 from 61 to 77 days. This development was driven by the regions of Ticino and Waadt / Wallis. In Ticino, advertisements were on the Internet 60 percent longer before they were sold than in 2019. In the Vaud / Wallis region, it took 25 percent longer and thus 71 days to sell a house than in the previous year.

    The authors of the study see a possible reason for the increase in the average tendering time in the uncertainty in the crisis year, which made many wait and see. Nevertheless, the demand remained high. “In some regions it took a little longer to sell a property for a short time. But we can see that the tide has already turned again and that single-family houses are very popular even in times of crisis, ”Jens Paul Berndt, CEO of Homegate, is quoted in a press release.