Category: Construction

  • Ariv opens second location in Cham

    Ariv opens second location in Cham

    Ariv has signed a contract with HIAG Immobilien AG to rent around 3550 square metres in the new CHAMA quarter in Cham. The coliving provider, which is part of Aquilas Company Builder AG, plans to operate 71 modern flats here from next spring. After one year of successful operation in Basel, Ariv has thus opened its second location, writes the company in a corresponding press release. No details are given there about the rental price.

    “We are delighted to be working with Ariv and welcome them to Quartier CHAMA,” David Bendler, Head of Asset Management at HIAG, is quoted as saying in the statement. “The choice of Ariv underlines the attractiveness of our site and confirms our vision of establishing a modern and versatile quarter in Cham.”

    Ariv’s concept envisages fully furnished residential units complemented by a communal area offering a range of activities. The target group is primarily companies and private individuals looking for accommodation for a limited period of time. “The market in the Zug region is very dynamic and developing rapidly,” explains Ariv CEO Eva White. “The numerous international companies that are based in the region and recruit internationally, among other things, represent an interesting target clientele.” After the successful start in Basel and the new location in Cham, the company is currently putting out feelers in other directions. In particular, it is looking for suitable properties in cities such as Zurich, Lausanne and Geneva.

  • Steiner AG wants to build 13 residential buildings in Wollerau

    Steiner AG wants to build 13 residential buildings in Wollerau

    Steiner AG has submitted the guideline project and the design plan for the Unter Erlen residential development. According to a statement by the real estate developer on LinkedIn, the project comprises 13 staggered buildings on a slope. All of the 62 Minergie-standard flats with 2.5 to 5.5 rooms planned in the terrace houses will have an unobstructed view of Lake Zurich.

    Seraina Investment Foundation, the investment foundation of Steiner Investment Foundation, acquired the property in 2021. It was established in 2016 as an independent and self-managed investment foundation and renamed Seraina Invest at the end of 2022. It has a portfolio of over 45 projects and an investment volume of over 1.4 billion Swiss francs.

    Together with Seraina Invest and the Meister family as neighbours in the development perimeter, Steiner AG invited tenders for a study. Finally, seven teams were invited to prepare their designs for this challenging area. The evaluation committee decided in favour of the vision of NUSUS Architekten and Studio Vulkan Landschaftsarchitektur.

    The public plan submission for the Unter Erlen design plan has been running since 6 October 2023 in the municipality of Wollerau. Landowners, developers and planners hope to be able to start construction of the buildings and flats in 2028. The construction costs are estimated at around 50 million Swiss francs.

  • Partners test innovations for construction sector in new NEST unit

    Partners test innovations for construction sector in new NEST unit

    After three years of planning, construction is underway again at NEST. The new modular building part (unit) is called STEP2. As in all other modules of the research and innovation building of the two research institutes, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research (Empa) and the Water Research Institute of the ETH Domain(Eawag), the project partners are also testing innovations with high market potential there. STEP2 is scheduled for completion in spring 2024.

    As STEP2’s main partner, BASF is making a significant contribution to the success of the project with its expertise, network and sustainable materials, according to a media release. After completion, all units will also be used as offices or flats.

    On the first floor of the two-storey unit, a noise-insulating ribbed filigree ceiling for office and high-rise buildings was installed. The 3D-printed formwork is 100 per cent recyclable. The circular concrete further increased sustainability. The Cadenza concrete staircase, also made with computer-aided design and 3D printing, leads to the second floor.

    STEP2 also addresses the building envelope and its potential for energy optimisation. The building façade is designed in such a way that various fixtures can be tested with minimal effort. In addition, a comprehensive energy and comfort concept including innovative lighting design was developed.

  • Empa launches research initiative on CO2 recycling

    Empa launches research initiative on CO2 recycling

    For Empa, a net zero in CO2 emissions is only an interim goal. Its researchers are looking for a holistic solution approach in which CO2 is not only captured and stored in the soil. “The goal is to develop an entirely new global economic model and the associated industrial sector that converts CO2 as the raw material of the future into value-added materials to replace conventional building materials and petrochemicals,” Empa writes in a corresponding press release.

    To this end, Empa has launched the research initiative Mining the Atmosphere. Instead of focusing on mining raw materials in underground mines, atmospheric mines are to be increasingly exploited in the future. The aim is to “remove an estimated 400 billion tonnes of carbon (i.e. around 1500 billion tonnes of CO2) from the atmosphere”, explains Empa. The research institute estimates that “countless players from research and industry will have to work together” to tackle this “task of the century”.

    The research initiative Mining the Atmosophere will kick off with two events in October and November. In the edition of wissen2go on 25 October, interested parties can learn about negative emission technologies. Empa is accepting registrations for the event online.

    On 7 November, Empa invites “stakeholders, practitioners and researchers from the construction, buildings and infrastructure, energy, environment and sustainability sectors” to the RFA Built Environment Mining the Atmosphere seminar. Here, the research institute will present relevant work of its own. Registrations are possible online until 30 October.

  • Steiner converts and expands Basel’s ex-UBS building

    Steiner converts and expands Basel’s ex-UBS building

    The former UBS building at Aeschenplatz 6 in Basel will be further developed into a “versatile urban building block”. Steiner AG announced this in a message on LinkedIn. Through conversions and extensions, it will in future offer attractive space for living, working and relaxing for people of all ages and population groups.

    “Located in the pulsating heart of Basel, at the entrance to the city centre, within walking distance of the railway station and close to the St. Alban and Gellert quarters, this site represents an exciting challenge for us,” says the Zurich-based real estate service provider, which also has a location at this very Basel address.

    According to the information provided, the project focuses on the efficient and careful use of resources. The planned preservation of the existing building will make a significant contribution to optimising the ecological footprint. The added new construction is intended to exploit previously unused potential and provide attractive, new living space.

    During the development process, Steiner will provide continuous online updates on the project. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028, with completion planned for 2030.

  • Empa researches clay as a sustainable building material

    Empa researches clay as a sustainable building material

    Clay releases significantly less CO2 than concrete, explains the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research(Empa) in a press release. Ellina Bernard from Empa’s Concrete & Asphalt Laboratory in Dübendorf and the Chair of Sustainable Construction at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich is working to establish clay as a sustainable alternative to concrete. Their project is supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation(SNSF) with an Ambizione grant.

    Clay is found in different geological compositions all over the world. The sustainable building material could replace concrete in non-load-bearing structures as well as in load-bearing walls of residential buildings. For large-scale use, Bernard and her team want to define standards for composition and mechanical strength. On the other hand, additives must be found that increase the load-bearing capacity of the material. Conventional cement is currently still used here, but this pushes the ecological footprint of clay “back into the red zone”, Empa writes.

    Bernard, in collaboration with geologist Raphael Kuhn, has found a promising approach in magnesium oxide. In initial laboratory experiments with clay formulations, a compressive strength of up to 15 megapascals was achieved, Empa informs. Clay with added cement achieves up to 20 megapascals.

  • AIHK submits building application for its new construction project

    AIHK submits building application for its new construction project

    With the building application to the city of Aarau at the end of September, the new building project of the Aargau Chamber of Commerce and Industry(AIHK) has reached an important milestone, according to an article in the magazine “Impulse” published by the AIHK. Depending on the building permit, construction work is expected to start at the beginning of 2025, the article continues. The building permit for the new Haus der Wirtschaft was handed over by AIHK President Beat Bechtold to City President Hanspeter Hilfiker and City Clerk Fabian Humbel in front of Aarau City Hall, the report says.

    The AIHK project team had already been in contact with various city officials beforehand, the report continues. For example, the city architect and the city image commission were consulted when it came to realising a building project that was as broadly supported as possible.

    The approval process starts with the building application. Demolition is planned for the end of 2024. The new building is expected to be ready for occupation in the third quarter of 2026.

    On the one hand, the new facilities in the new Haus der Wirtschaft will enable more professional courses and events to be held, the report in “Impulse” continues. On the other hand, the new building stands for the progressive digitalisation and modernisation that has been taking place at the association for several years.

  • New, diverse urban quarter in Wetzikon

    New, diverse urban quarter in Wetzikon

    SISKA Immobilien plans to replace the existing property with a building with public-oriented uses on the ground floors and flats above. The next step will be to adopt the urban development model this autumn. Based on this, a private partial design plan will be drawn up as a basis for the project planning of the centre superstructure over two plots. Completion of the residential and commercial building at the western gateway to the city centre is planned for around 2029.

    The Unterwetzikon district of Wetzikon is undergoing a dynamic transformation and growth phase and is developing into an attractive location for housing, utilities, commerce and services.

    Wetzikon is an attractive place to live thanks to its good S-Bahn connections to Zurich and Rapperswil and the surrounding unique recreational area of the Zurich Oberland. The planned development will further enhance the attractiveness of the neighbourhood around Wetzikon railway station and become part of a new, diverse urban district with a high quality of life.

  • Careful transformation of the Papierwerd site resolved

    Careful transformation of the Papierwerd site resolved

    The Papierwerd site is to become a public place that is well connected to the adjacent urban space and invites people to stay, meet and exchange ideas. With this in mind, the city council has agreed to a careful transformation, in which the open space offer in particular is to be increased. The direction of development is based on the results of the “Forum Papierwerd” dialogue process and takes into account important framework conditions, such as the need to protect the temporary Globus building and water protection. How far the redevelopment of the Papierwerd site will go and what it will involve in detail is still open.

    Strategy process for the Papierwerd site
    The Papierwerd site strategy process was used to develop the basis for a broad-based decision on the future of the site. The core of this process is the “Forum Papierwerd” dialogue procedure carried out in 2022, in which experts from various disciplines, representatives from politics, associations and other organisations as well as the population participated. The process revealed that both structural and use-related changes are necessary for the desired opening and changeability of the area. The results are recorded in eleven central statements that contain important aspects for the future of the village.

    Immediate measures
    The transformation of the Papierwerd site will begin as soon as possible. Where changes in the sense of the results of the dialogue process are feasible on a low-threshold basis, (temporary) immediate measures will be implemented from 2024. For example, an upgrading of the open space south of the Globus temporary building or a more open, transparent design of the ground floor façade in the entrance area of the station bridge are planned.

    Next steps

    In an in-depth phase up to the beginning of 2025, various construction-related questions will be clarified and the handling of the Globus provisionals’ worthiness of protection as well as water protection will be further discussed. In the subsequent project phase, which is estimated to last until 2026, a competition will be held. This will be followed by project planning and the approval procedure. All work on the Papierwerd site should continue to be carried out transparently and in dialogue with the various parties involved.

  • Digital building starts in the mind

    Digital building starts in the mind

    L’edilizia digitale – soprattutto con l’aiuto del Building Information Modelling (BIM) – sta sfidando molti processi collaudati nel settore edile. La costruzione digitale avviene innanzitutto nella mente e sul computer, dove viene creato un modello virtuale del progetto.

    Sulla base di questa immagine 3D molto dettagliata del futuro edificio, si possono già prendere molte decisioni ed eliminare potenziali problemi. I sostenitori di questo nuovo tipo di costruzione, supportato digitalmente, promettono guadagni di efficienza e di qualità, una riduzione degli errori di costruzione e una logistica di costruzione molto semplificata.

    Edilizia digitale: un piano in 6 punti semplifica il ripensamento

    Tuttavia, il passaggio dall’edilizia analogica a quella digitale è tutt’altro che semplice. Il docente di BFH Adrian Wildenauer lo sa per esperienza personale. Come ingegnere civile, conosce tutti gli aspetti dell’industria edile, dall’acciaio per armature alla modellazione BIM.

    Per le FFS, ha sviluppato un piano in 6 punti per tutto il settore, che intende servire come base per ripensare le operazioni di costruzione da analogiche a digitali. A suo avviso, è fondamentale che tutti gli attori coinvolti nell’edilizia siano coinvolti e facciano progredire il settore insieme.

    Chiarire l’obiettivo e la tabella di marcia

    Nell’edilizia digitale, le basi, le tabelle di marcia, i modelli e l’immagine target sono disponibili a tutti i partecipanti fin dall’inizio. Ciò consente alle imprese di costruzione, ai fornitori, agli architetti e ai clienti di coordinarsi molto prima della cerimonia di posa del terreno e di eliminare i possibili conflitti e le fonti di errore in una fase iniziale. “Dobbiamo coinvolgere tutti i partecipanti alla catena del valore il più presto possibile”, sottolinea Adrian Wildenauer.

    Comunicare con il linguaggio

    I progetti di costruzione digitale richiedono che tutti parlino la stessa lingua. L’industria ottiene questo risultato lavorando ancora di più con standard validi. A partire dai termini rilevanti dell’edilizia digitale e del Building Information Modelling, agli standard della Società Svizzera degli Ingegneri e degli Architetti (sia) o del Centro di Competenza per gli Standard nell’Industria Edile e Immobiliare (crb), fino allo scambio con le associazioni e le società del settore: soprattutto all’inizio, è importante che tutti i soggetti coinvolti si capiscano. Il Glossario nazionale sviluppato congiuntamente, in cui i termini sono stati definiti congiuntamente, aiuta anche in questo caso.

    Comunicare con il modello di dati

    Non solo le persone coinvolte dipendono da una comunicazione funzionante, ma anche i sistemi coinvolti. Poiché un modello virtuale del progetto edilizio è centrale per l’edilizia digitale, non c’è modo di evitare lo sviluppo congiunto di un modello di dati consolidato per gli edifici. In questo modo è possibile scambiare facilmente informazioni dal progettista al capomastro. “Trattare i dati è il nostro nuovo linguaggio comune”, spiega Adrian Wildenauer, “dobbiamo impararlo”

    Riutilizzare i componenti

    Un vantaggio dell’edilizia digitale è che non si deve necessariamente reinventare la ruota – o addirittura il progetto edilizio – per ogni progetto. Dopo tutto, molti elementi di una costruzione tornano in uso con ogni progetto. Invece di progettarli, dimensionarli e testarli da zero con ogni progetto, come in precedenza, è sufficiente utilizzare oggetti edili standardizzati. Ad esempio, prima di progettare una porta, ne costruisce un’immagine digitale standardizzata. Questa contiene tutti gli attributi necessari, dalla scelta del materiale alle dimensioni del cilindro, dalle larghezze e altezze delle ante alle strisce di tenuta. Grazie agli oggetti di costruzione standardizzati, le aziende risparmiano tempo nella progettazione di tali oggetti ed evitano errori. Affinché questo funzioni, le aziende devono avere un facile accesso a una raccolta di tali componenti digitali.

    Raccogliere l’esperienza

    La conoscenza nel settore edile è spesso ancora trasmessa in modo molto tradizionale, dal maestro artigiano esperto direttamente agli apprendisti sul cantiere. Nell’edilizia digitale, questa conoscenza, che oggi non è tangibile o documentata, può essere raccolta sistematicamente in cantiere e utilizzata per la formazione. Ma anche le esperienze con l’edilizia digitale stessa possono essere registrate e gli strumenti e i processi digitali possono essere testati per la loro idoneità. Se la gestione digitale dell’edilizia porta a un migliore trasferimento delle conoscenze, il settore è sulla strada giusta, ne è convinto Adrian Wildenauer: “Solo se condividiamo le conoscenze possiamo avere successo insieme”

    Comunicare le basi dell’ordine

    Molti processi nell’edilizia digitale culminano in un ordine, che si tratti della prenotazione di un servizio o dell’acquisto di materiali. Un grande vantaggio della costruzione digitale è che i dati necessari per gli ordini vengono registrati il prima possibile nel modello virtuale del progetto. Tuttavia, affinché qualcosa accada in cantiere, tutti coloro che sono coinvolti nel progetto devono sapere come ottenere e utilizzare i dati degli ordini dal sistema. La formazione e la documentazione adeguate per i dipendenti sono quindi obbligatorie.

    In pratica, diventa chiaro che l’edilizia digitale richiede una cooperazione digitale comune. I sistemi e l’infrastruttura IT sono importanti, ma solo se gli architetti, gli ingegneri civili e le aziende partner sono disposti a lavorare insieme in tutte le aree di competenza. La costruzione digitale non inizia sullo schermo, ma nella mente degli esperti.

  • Frischknecht Holzbau-Team AG wins the Innovation Award Zürcher Unterland 2023

    Frischknecht Holzbau-Team AG wins the Innovation Award Zürcher Unterland 2023

    This year’s Innovation Award Zürcher Unterland has gone to Frischknecht Holzbau-Team AG. The company from Kloten “has shown a lot of courage with the introduction of a four-day week to combat the shortage of skilled workers and has gained new and valuable experience for the construction industry”, writes the association Standort Zürcher Unterland in a statement. It has organised the competition to honour innovations from the Unterland region every year since 2021.

    Comtag AG from Wil ZH came in second with its innovative cleaning process for coffee grinders. Third place went to Green Datacenter AG from Lupfig AG. It was awarded for its Metro Campus Dielsdorf. The waste heat from the data centre in Unterland can be used by households and businesses in the surrounding area.

    The prize money of 5000 Swiss francs for the first-placed company and 2500 Swiss francs each for the second and third-placed companies was donated by the sponsors Zürcher Kantonalbank and Vetropack. The award ceremony took place on 14 September as part of the innovation event at Vivi Kola in the premises of the former mineral springs in Eglisau. The 50 or so participants were also offered a programme of presentations and seminars as well as a tour of Vivi Kola’s factory facilities.

    This year’s Innovation Award Zürcher Unterland went to Frischknecht Holzbau-Team AG. The company from Kloten “has shown a lot of courage with the introduction of a four-day week to combat the shortage of skilled workers and has gained new and valuable experience for the construction industry”, writes the association Standort Zürcher Unterland in a statement. It has organised the competition to honour innovations from the Unterland region every year since 2021.

    Comtag AG from Wil ZH came in second with its innovative cleaning process for coffee grinders. Third place went to Green Datacenter AG from Lupfig AG. It was awarded for its Metro Campus Dielsdorf. The waste heat from the data centre in Unterland can be used by households and businesses in the surrounding area.

    The prize money of 5000 Swiss francs for the first-placed company and 2500 Swiss francs each for the second and third-placed companies was donated by the sponsors Zürcher Kantonalbank and Vetropack. The award ceremony took place on 14 September as part of the innovation event at Vivi Kola in the premises of the former mineral springs in Eglisau. The 50 or so participants were also offered a programme of presentations and seminars as well as a tour of Vivi Kola’s factory facilities.

  • Future-oriented neighbourhood management: cultivating an active living space

    Future-oriented neighbourhood management: cultivating an active living space

    It is essential to involve all relevant actors in the neighbourhood design process to promote social sustainability. This includes both residential and commercial tenants. The creation of activity and meeting zones not only strengthens social cohesion but also provides a platform for business synergies.

    Added value through neighbourhood activation
    The active management of a community increases the attractiveness and value of the neighbourhood, which has a positive effect on the marketing of vacant spaces. At the same time, sustainable social hubs are created that strengthen the sense of community.

    Pioneers in nationwide implementation
    Initial projects in various neighbourhoods in Switzerland show the success of this approach. For example, a pop-up event was launched in Winterthur that combined gastronomy and culture for six weeks. Due to the great popularity, this concept will be further expanded and also implemented in Zurich for the coming winter.

    A young but promising discipline
    Although community management is still quite new as a field, it is seen by experts as a promising and as yet untapped area. “We see great potential in this approach and want to develop and promote it,” say industry experts. I hope this paraphrase meets your needs and offers a new perspective on the subject.

  • Veriset renews kitchen exhibition

    Veriset renews kitchen exhibition

    Veriset AG has invested in its kitchen exhibition at its headquarters in Root. After six months of construction, the showroom has been completely refurbished. The infrastructure had reached its limits since the last major renovation in 2010, according to a press release. In addition to modernisation, the aim was also to present the exhibition kitchens in a fresher way. Now the exhibition appears airier and larger.

    At the same time, many new functions will be introduced. For Veriset, these include a new type of appliance wall, where new built-in appliances can be quickly and easily exchanged, or a kitchenette with a utility room that is “cleverly hidden behind a cupboard door, as is customary today”.

    The two partners Cozza Plättli and Textilwerke are also represented with their products. For the employees, Veriset has reportedly created attractive workplaces with new, modern offices.

    The three kitchen professionals have two consulting stations with numerous material samples and a large computer screen for visualisation and planning. According to Veriset, both the simple rental flat kitchen and the luxurious black island kitchen have been considered for the exhibition kitchens. A virtual tour and pictures are intended to provide a first impression.

  • Zum umweltfreundlichen Spital mit «Best Practices»

    Zum umweltfreundlichen Spital mit «Best Practices»

    Im Gesundheitssektor wurde der Umweltaspekt bisher oft vernachlässigt. Das Forschungsprojekt „Green Hospital – Ressourceneffizienz bei Schweizer Spitälern“ hat dazu beigetragen, das Bewusstsein für umweltrelevante Prozesse in Schweizer Spitälern zu schärfen. Im Rahmen des Nationalen Forschungsprogramms „Nachhaltige Wirtschaft: ressourcenschonend, zukunftsfähig, innovativ“ (NFP 73) wurde eine Liste von praxisorientierten Maßnahmen veröffentlicht, um Spitäler in ihrer Nachhaltigkeitsstrategie zu unterstützen.

    Die Studie, geleitet von Matthias Stucki am ZHAW-Institut für Umwelt und Natürliche Ressourcen, hat ergeben, dass insbesondere die Bereiche Wärme, Catering, Gebäudeinfrastruktur und Medikamente für den Großteil der Umweltbelastung durch Spitäler verantwortlich sind. Aber auch andere Faktoren wie Stromverbrauch, Abfallmanagement und die Verwendung von medizinischen Produkten spielen eine Rolle.

    Die aus der Studie abgeleiteten „Best Practices“ wurden aus einer Vielzahl von Literaturquellen und Praxisbeispielen zusammengestellt. Diese Massnahmen zielen darauf ab, die Umweltauswirkungen bei gleichbleibender Qualität der Gesundheitsdienstleistungen zu minimieren. Dabei wurde besonderer Wert auf die Auswahl von Maßnahmen mit hoher Klimarelevanz und großer Umsetzbarkeit gelegt.

    Insgesamt zeigt die Studie, dass die größten Chancen für eine Verbesserung der Umweltbilanz in der Konstruktion von langlebigen und ressourceneffizienten Gebäuden, der Nutzung erneuerbarer Energien und der Einführung von pflanzenbasierten Gerichten im Verpflegungsangebot liegen.

    Dieses Forschungsprojekt stellt einen wichtigen Schritt dar, um die schweizerische Krankenhauslandschaft nachhaltiger zu gestalten und setzt einen Meilenstein für zukünftige Initiativen in diesem Bereich.

  • Council of States approves Real Estate Message 2023

    Council of States approves Real Estate Message 2023

    the Federal Council wants to invest 29.5 million francs in the expansion and renovation of the Agroscope research centre in Zurich-Reckenholz. The underground connecting level of the federal administration and laboratory buildings in Liebefeld (municipality of Köniz BE) is to be expanded at a cost of CHF 21.1 million.

    For 27.5 million Swiss francs, the Federal Council wants to have a new building and a new office built for the Swiss representation in Cameroon’s capital. The two buildings are to be constructed on the grounds of the Swiss Embassy and replace rented buildings.

    The Real Estate Dispatch also includes expenditure of CHF 140 million for projects not individually specified below an amount of ten million francs. The Council of States unanimously adopted the federal resolution on the real estate message on Monday. It still goes to the National Council.

  • Freiburg under the sign of the building sector and energy efficiency

    Freiburg under the sign of the building sector and energy efficiency

    The Fribourg construction sector is part of the bioeconomy, one of the two axes of the canton’s economic strategy. It is proving to be very robust and is prepared for the major upheavals that will result from the challenges of climate change, resource scarcity and digital progress.

    “Whether in the fields of wood construction, metal construction, concrete, plastics, civil engineering or energy efficiency, Fribourg companies enjoy an excellent reputation throughout the country and beyond thanks to their know-how,” says a delighted Olivier Curty, Director of Economic Affairs and Vocational Training for the Canton of Fribourg.

    The players in the sector are supported in their projects and activities in particular by the Building Innovation Cluster, which plays an important role in dynamising the sector, and by the Smart Living Lab, the leading centre of excellence for the future of the built environment. Jerry Krattiger, Director of the Fribourg Economic Development Agency (WIF): “The environment is favourable for the development of partnerships and innovative projects. The framework conditions are excellent, the skills and the will are there… we just have to use them to shape our future!

    Presentation of the magazine
    The 2023 edition of Fribourg Network Fribourg was presented at a panel discussion organised by the WIF in the bluefactory innovation quarter. In the presence of Jacques Boschung, President of Bluefactory Fribourg-Fribourg SA, and Remo Daguati, President of the Swiss Association for Site Management (SVSM), representatives of the Smart Living Lab research and development centre, the companies JPF Holding SA and Lutz Architectes, and the founder of Mobbot shared their experiences and discussed trends, innovation opportunities and challenges in the construction sector.

    Link to the Fribourg Network Fribourg magazine www.fribourgnetwork.ch

  • Steiner initiates construction of wooden building in Ostermundingen

    Steiner initiates construction of wooden building in Ostermundingen

    Steiner AG has started building 17 condominiums in Ostermundigen, near Bern. The marketing of the studios and the 2.5- and 4.5-room flats is already “in full swing”, writes the Zurich-based real estate developer in a post on LinkedIn. The NIDO project envisages a building in timber construction with flats accessed by an arcade.

    “Equipped with modern building technology such as a geothermal probe with heat pump and a photovoltaic system, this progressive wooden building will be a forward-looking home for people who are concerned about sustainable living,” Steiner says. According to the project description, the flats have balconies and terraces facing west. The flats on the ground floor each have a garden area. In addition, “meeting zones for all residents” are to be created in the outdoor space.

  • Spreitenbach presents result on the conversion of the community centre

    Spreitenbach presents result on the conversion of the community centre

    The municipality of Spreitenbach has completed the competition for the conversion of the old community hall into a school and presented the winning company. According to the latest edition of the Gemeindeachrichten, the jury of experts was convinced by the project of Birchmeier Baumanagement AG from Döttingen AG. The qualities lie both in the site planning setting and in the architectural expression, it says. The allocation of the required room programme, with minor adjustments, promises a high utility value and flexibility for the school.

    Before the municipal council submits the building loan of about 22 million Swiss francs to the municipal assembly for approval, all projects will be presented to the population in an exhibition. There will be an opportunity to ask the planners, architects and community representatives present questions about the project and the tendering process, according to the community news.

    The exhibition will be open from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, 20 October, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, 21 October. The project exhibitions will take place in the old community hall on Poststrasse. The winning project will also be presented in detail at the Politapéros on 27 October.

    After the move to the new municipal building, the municipal administration will be open at the new location at Bahnhofstrasse 2 from Tuesday, 5 September.

  • Decline in orders continues

    Decline in orders continues

    In the first half of 2023, the main construction industry generated 11 billion Swiss francs in turnover, which is practically stagnant compared to the same semester last year. Building construction and civil engineering developed similarly. Accordingly, capacity utilisation is still high and the employment situation is good.

    Lower construction activity in the medium term

    In the medium term, however, the outlook is becoming gloomier. In the first half of the current year, orders in building construction were CHF 0.6 billion lower than in the same period last year, in civil engineering CHF 0.5 billion lower. Overall, this corresponds to a decline of 8.3 percent. Several companies even reported a negative order intake overall. This means that already planned construction projects were temporarily paused, redimensioned or completely put on hold.

    Accordingly, the work in progress has also decreased in the past quarters, standing at 15.9 billion Swiss francs at the end of June 2023, 2.6 percent lower than a year ago.

    From housing surplus to housing shortage

    The stock of housing orders has also declined. The trend is clear, too few flats will be built this year and next. In the last 12 months, the franc volume of approved housing applications has fallen by 9 per cent compared to the previous 12 months. The housing shortage could be solved more quickly with less regulation. In addition, appeals are often used to push through particular interests at the expense of the creation of new housing. SBC will lobby accordingly at the Federal Council’s next round table on the housing shortage so that construction activity can be accelerated again.

    SBC thanks Credit Suisse for very good cooperation – Construction Index to be continued

    The Construction Index predicts a 2% increase in turnover for the next quarter compared to the same period last year. This edition marks the end of SBC’s 14-year partnership with Credit Suisse on the Construction Index. SBC would like to thank Credit Suisse for the always very good cooperation, it has been greatly appreciated. SBC will continue the established forecasting tool, from the 4th quarter of 2023 in an adapted form and with a new look.

  • Fortimo realises real estate project in Dubai

    Fortimo realises real estate project in Dubai

    Fortimo Group is unveiling a new real estate project in Dubai. According to a media release on zawya.com, the St.Gallen-based company is realising a new development in the Dubai Hills residential area. It is working with local partners Eaglewing Projects and OCTA Develop.

    The new residential complex, called The Golf Residence, will reportedly include 200 residential units with views of the nearby golf course and green parks. They will be equipped with high-end kitchen facilities from Europe. Several pools, communal areas and sports facilities are also planned. With a co-working space for residents, Fortimo also aims to cater to the trend of more remote working.

    “We are excited to take the next step in our expansion into Dubai with The Golf Residence, our first build-to-buy project in the United Arab Emirates,” Remo Bienz, co-owner of Fortimo, is quoted as saying. Fortimo is impressed by the development of Dubai into an “internationally recognised, vibrant destination”. The company wants to be part of this development, Bienz said.

  • Early planning phase is crucial for net zero in real estate

    Early planning phase is crucial for net zero in real estate

    A broad-based portfolio study by Implenia shows how climate-neutral buildings can be realised. For this study, the construction company’s Real Estate Division examined 36 of its own development projects in Switzerland. According to a press release, this study reveals the most important levers for decarbonising buildings over their entire life cycle, both in terms of emissions during their construction and during operation.

    Implenia has compiled these influencing factors in a white paper. It is aimed at investors, developers and clients who want to bring their project onto a net-zero target path.

    According to this analysis, the most effective levers for decarbonisation can be found in the early planning phase, starting with site selection. This is because if the site conditions are unfavourable in terms of renewable energies, it is much more difficult to achieve net-zero use.

    In addition, building parameters set early on also have “a significant impact on emissions targets”. These include shape, compactness, orientation, basement and support structure. “With the right combination of location, design, the use of renewable energies, intelligent systems and ecological materials, we develop buildings in which future generations can live and work sustainably,” says Marc Lyon, Head Real Estate Development Switzerland at Implenia.

  • Strabag focuses on sustainability for apartment buildings

    Strabag focuses on sustainability for apartment buildings

    Strabag has begun work on the construction of six apartment buildings that will house a total of 29 condominiums, according to a media release. Strabag has set itself the target of handing over the turnkey building pit within twelve months. Part of this work includes 18 geothermal boreholes, as the heat supply for the houses will be realised by geothermal energy. The houses will also be connected via an underground parking garage, which will have different levels.

    “In total, we have around 4-5 months to complete the main excavation,” Roger Reich, technical group leader for civil engineering at Strabag AG, is quoted as saying. “That is relatively sporty. The construction site is also in the middle of a residential neighbourhood, which means we have to work particularly closely to schedule.”

    For the bored piles, the Schlieren-based company relies on sustainable basalt fibres. The conventional steel reinforcement of the piles can thus be largely replaced. On the one hand, this reduces the construction time and, by reducing the steel resources required, CO2 emissions are also kept lower.

  • Limmattal should actively shape its urbanisation

    Limmattal should actively shape its urbanisation

    Urbanist Thomas Sevcik assumes that the region between Schlieren and Turgi will increasingly become a city. In his publication “Limmattalstadt – Impulse für die Region entlang der Limmat” (Limmat Valley City – Impulses for the Region along the Limmat), he proposes to shape this urbanisation “actively and strategically”. “The Limmattal city will come anyway. But we should make it as good as we can,” he writes.

    Among other things, Sevcik proposes so-called neo-areas. These should close gaps between settlement areas. For example, a campus on part of the marshalling yard could offer space for a Hochschule Limmat, a computer centre, but also a congress and entertainment centre. A new residential quarter could be built between Neuenhof and Killwangen, and a future-oriented quarter for new forms of living and working in the Tägerhard to the east of Wettingen. In the Hard in Siggenthal, too, a new district could combine work, living and leisure.

    Sevcik points out that the Limmat has so far had little presence in the region. He suggests upgrading the river landscape in Dietikon to a riviera.

    Economically, the future Limmat Valley city should rely on its strengths in applied technology and design, logistics and trade, as well as medtech and biotech. Mobility in the region should be facilitated by the extension of the Limmattalbahn, the use of the railway line between Dättwil and Wettingen, cable cars and the bicycle network. Sevcik also proposes a take-off site for vertical take-off electric helicopters at the Würenlos motorway service station.

    Sevcik developed the strategy ideas on the initiative of the Limmatstadt Location Promotion Agency and presented them at the general meeting of Limmatstadt AG on 15 August. 20 companies, mainly from the region, supported the project. The publication can be ordered digitally.

  • Urbane Dörfer lädt zur Eröffnung nach Melchenbühl ein  

    Urbane Dörfer lädt zur Eröffnung nach Melchenbühl ein  

    Die Genossenschaft Urbane Dörfer mit Sitz in Bern lädt am Samstag, 26. August, ab 17 Uhr zur Eröffnungsfeier des Projekts Melchenbühl nach Muri-Gümligen ein. Dort, direkt bei der Tramhaltestelle Melchenbühl in Gümligen, eröffnet die Genossenschaft einen vielfältigen Begegnungsort. Es ist das zweite Pilotprojekt von Urbane Dörfer neben dem Urbanen Dorf Webergut in Zollikofen BE. Laut einem zu diesem Anlass herausgegebenen Flyer mit Einladung wird am 26. August zunächst ein Kreativort mit Kaffee und Bar, Coworking und Atelier eröffnet. Langfristig sollen 60 Wohneinheiten entstehen.

    Am 1. März 2023 hat Urbane Dörfer das Areal übernommen. Die ungenutzte Wiesenfläche, ein zweistöckiges Werkstatt- und Bürogebäude mit Innenhof und ein Zeithorizont von zwei bis drei Jahren schaffen Raum für Ideen aus der Bevölkerung, das Testen von zukünftigen Nutzungen des Urbanen Dorfes und für einen Begegnungsort, heisst es auf der Internetseite zum Projekt.

    Am neuen Kreativort wird es Benela’s Kaffee und Bar im Erdgeschoss geben. Im Obergeschoss sollen Atelier und Coworking Space einen schöpferischen Nährboden für Kreativschaffende und Selbstständige schaffen. Die Kreativwerkstatt diene als Workshop-Raum für kreative Projekte.

    Zur Zukunft des Pilotprojekts heisst es, langfristig entstehe auf dem Areal ein vielfältiger Wohn-, Arbeits- und Kreativort und eine Basis für gelebte Nachbarschaft. Geplant sind 60 Wohneinheiten, gemeinschaftlich genutzte Flächen und öffentliche Gewerbeflächen. Das partizipative Wohnprojekt sei „eine Keimzelle für ein nachhaltiges urbanes Leben“.

    Dann folgt noch der Hinweis, dass der Anlass bei jedem Wetter stattfinde und eine Anmeldung nicht erforderlich sei.

  • Umwelt Arena shows lighthouse project Building 2050 Urdorf

    Umwelt Arena shows lighthouse project Building 2050 Urdorf

    The latest flagship project of the Building 2050 concept of the Swiss Environment Arena Foundation isa CO2-neutral housing development in Urdorf. It is now being made accessible to interested parties as part of guided tours. According to a LinkedIn post by the foundation, the programme is also suitable as a company outing. In the first module, participants are given a guided tour of the housing complex itself. They are also shown a model flat. The second module takes place in the Umwelt Arena in Spreitenbach, where further background information on the Building 2050 concept is presented. The Environment Area itself will also be in focus. Among other things, participants could travel between the two locations on the Limmattalbahn.

    The CO2-neutral residential development in Urdorf features several sustainable building concepts. For example, recycled concrete and brick were used, which allow solar thermal energy to be stored with as little loss as possible. In addition, showers with heat recovery, geothermal probes and triple-glazed windows, for example, contribute to high energy efficiency. Thanks to such measures, electricity and heat are free of charge for tenants within a defined budget. The development was built by W. Schmid + Co. Glattbrugg and Umwelt Arena’s exhibition and specialist partners.

  • SBC launches election platform “For a constructive Switzerland

    SBC launches election platform “For a constructive Switzerland

    The density of regulation in the construction sector, the 2050 climate targets, security of supply and the shortage of skilled workers are key concerns of the population, the economy and politics and will accordingly also be the focus of the federal elections on 22 October 2023. The SBC has therefore chosen these key issues for its national election platform “For a constructive Switzerland”. This with the catchy slogan “We modernise, we build, we take responsibility”. Gian-Luca Lardi, Central President of the Swiss Association of Master Builders, states: “The main construction trade can and wants to contribute to constructive solutions for the future”. Until election day on 22 October, the positions on these topics, which are also at the heart of the SBC’s “Agenda 125.0”, will be presented on www.konstruktive-schweiz.ch. On the other hand, candidates will be presented on the platform whom the SBC recommends to the voters for election. Newsletters, posts in the social media, reporting in the association’s publications and construction site leaflets round off the communication support for the candidates. The SBC works closely with its cantonal sections on this.

    We modernise. We build. We take responsibility.
    Since Switzerland’s building stock is responsible for almost half of the country’s energy consumption, this is another area where we must take action, says Martin Bäumle, a member of the Zurich National Council: “Security of supply is of central importance. That’s why it’s crucial that we renovate buildings to make them more energy-efficient and enable efficient new buildings.” In concrete terms, higher incentives and the removal of barriers to modernisation could help Switzerland to increase its building renovation rate to the necessary level.

    In addition to modern buildings, Switzerland also needs a top infrastructure, says Bernese National Councillor Christian Wasserfallen: “After all, infrastructures are Switzerland’s lifeline.” Alex Farinelli, National Councillor for Ticino and candidate for the Council of States, adds: “The ecological and energy challenges require an efficient infrastructure and a modern building stock. That’s why it’s important to give the building sector the opportunity to make its contribution with faster procedures and fewer bureaucratic hurdles.” The necessary framework conditions and legal certainty are created by politics, while the construction work is done by the master builders.

    Last but not least, the shortage of skilled workers is also a topic in the campaign of the Swiss Association of Master Builders. The challenges of finding the necessary personnel are also great in the main construction trade. “I am committed to a constructive Switzerland that continues to train enough practitioners to implement Switzerland’s modernisation in buildings and infrastructure,” emphasises Isabelle Chassot, Fribourg’s Councillor of States. “We must take decisive action against the shortage of skilled workers,” adds Diana Gutjahr, National Councillor for the Canton of Thurgau. This starts with ensuring that vocational apprenticeships remain as attractive as possible, Gutjahr continues.

  • Modular wooden fixtures for interim uses

    Modular wooden fixtures for interim uses

    The whir of a cordless screwdriver rings through the DISPO in Nidau. In the old factory hall, which offers space for creative, cultural and business people, four prototypes of space modules are being built that day, thanks to which it should be possible in future to implement interim uses of vacant buildings and wastelands simply and sustainably. The aim is to add ecological, economic and social value to unused spaces. This is the goal of researchers from the Institute of Timber Construction, Structures and Architecture IHTA at the Bern University of Applied Sciences BFH, together with partners from industry, in the Innosuisse research project “àDisposition”.

    Various modular solutions tested
    In the project, the researchers are developing a modular construction kit for room modules and interior fittings. A central component is a configurator, thanks to which project ideas can be easily tested, presented and implemented in a time- and resource-saving manner. Based on digital designs, the BFH researchers are now creating prototypes at Dispo in Nidau in collaboration with the project partners. Using these, they are investigating and improving various module solutions. The project team is testing different systems, connecting elements and segment shapes and, after a short time, is already able to identify the most promising strategies for a lightweight, reusable and easily reconfigurable modular system.

    Time for assembly varies depending on the degree of fabrication
    The requirements for modular fixtures are high: assembly and disassembly should be possible for non-professionals and the components should be light enough that only two people are needed for assembly. The fixtures should also be adaptable, easy to rearrange and easy to transport and store. During the assembly of the prototypes, it already becomes apparent how important it is to select the ideal degree of prefabrication. If the frames of the modules are delivered already screwed together, the fixtures can be set up in a very short time. Transport and storage, however, turned out to be more difficult. Conversely, assembly took significantly longer if the components were delivered individually and thus compact.

    Importance of digital continuity
    Another aspect that the researchers are testing with the production and assembly of the prototypes is the digital chain “design to production”. The modules are designed in the configurator, and the data for production is then automatically exported to CadWork. These files formed the basis for material orders and the production process. Here, the importance of digital continuity for a fast and simple production process became apparent.

    In a next step, the researchers are looking at the equipment of the modules. For example, the walls are another design element and additional (insulating) layers must meet the requirements for sound and heat insulation. These requirements differ greatly depending on the use.

    “àDisposition – Spaceship Planet Earth. Sustainable and temporary use of buildings and vacant sites through simple and modular structural measures” is a research project funded by Innosuoisse that runs until June 2025. Project partners are C2 Beat Cattaruzza GmbH, Beer Holzbau AG, Pius Schuler AG, Prona AG and Bauart Architekten und Planer AG.

  • Hochparterre discusses long-term view of Schlieren

    Hochparterre discusses long-term view of Schlieren

    The Zurich publishing house Hochparterre has published its eponymous magazine for the month of August. Among other things, it is about the large-scale project Stadtwerdung im Zeitraffer by photographer Meret Wandeler and publicist Caspar Schärer. They have documented the structural development of the city of Schlieren in photos for 15 years, according to a media release. A book on the project has been published by Scheidegger & Spiess.

    Rahel Marti also interviewed the two about their long-term photographic observation and its usefulness for spatial planning in the publisher’s new podcast Sach & Krach.

    The new issue also deals with virtual dream landscapes that 3D artists and designers develop inspired by painting and nature. The text on these pixel paradises “seriously questions our treatment of nature”.

    The issue also takes up the Architecture Biennale in Venice. It introduces readers to African architecture, which is also championed by the architect and professor at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich(ETH), Mariam Issoufou Kamara, who has her say in an interview.

    Author Deborah Fehlmann looks at the Weiermatt housing estate in the Aargau municipality of Lupfig and “shows the Hüsli people the advantages of cooperative building”. And urban wanderer and architecture critic Benedikt Loderer calls for the creation of a second old town in Biel in the hospital area.

  • Synhelion and Cemex scale up solar clinker to industrial level

    Synhelion and Cemex scale up solar clinker to industrial level

    Synhelion, the global pioneer for sustainable solar fuels, had produced solar clinker for the first time in January 2022 with cement producer Cemex in a Spanish pilot plant. Now, according to an identical media release, the two companies have scaled up production to an industrial level.

    In the process, solar receivers from Synhelion, a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, use concentrated sunlight to generate temperatures of over 1500 degrees. This heats a gaseous heat transfer medium. In this way, the heat required to fuse limestone, clay and other materials together can be provided. In traditional clinker production, fossil fuels are used for the energy-intensive process, which are responsible for about 40 per cent of direct CO2 emissions. The goal of the cooperation between Synhelion and Cemex is to develop a completely solar-powered cement production.

    The current stage of development is “an exciting milestone for all parties involved, achieved through the excellent collaboration between the Cemex and Synhelion teams,” Gianluca Ambrosetti, co-CEO and co-founder of Synhelion, is quoted as saying in the release. “Our technology can make an important contribution to the decarbonisation of cement production, and we look forward to further breakthrough achievements in this area.” Cemex CEO Fernando A. González adds, “The solid progress I see here proves that solar cement is not just a dream, but can be achieved through continued collaboration and rigorous research and testing.”

  • Implenia is leading the construction of the Ligerz Tunnel

    Implenia is leading the construction of the Ligerz Tunnel

    The IBD consortium has been awarded the contract by SBB to build the Ligerz tunnel, Implenia announced in a press release. The construction and real estate company from Opfikon is the leader of the IBD consortium. In addition to Implenia, the consortium includes the construction companies Bernasconi from Luterbach SO and De Luca from Biel BE.

    The contract includes the construction of a 2.1-kilometre-long double-track tunnel with four escape tunnels and a 114-metre-long viaduct for the N5 motorway exit, as well as various additional structures. The contract is worth a total of 220 million Swiss francs. Around CHF 150 million of this is Implenia’s share.

    The contract is Lot 2 of the Ligerz-Twann double-track extension, which is intended to eliminate the rail bottleneck on the Jura river line between Lausanne and Biel. The Zurich-based construction and real estate company is deploying its experts from the fields of civil, tunnelling, special civil engineering, structural engineering, railway engineering and maritime work for the project. “We are looking forward to executing this large and complex railway infrastructure project together with our ARGE partners and to once again demonstrating our many years of experience and expertise in this field,” Christian Späth, Head Division Civil Engineering at Implenia, is quoted as saying in the press release. The location of the tunnel in protected areas is described there as a major challenge for implementation.