Tag: Baubranche

Construction activity remains stable

Construction activity realised a small year-on-year increase of 0.4 percent to CHF 4.7 billion in the first quarter of 2025, the Swiss Federation of Master Builders(SBV) reported in a press release. It estimates construction activity to be stable despite the international trade conflicts. For the year as a whole, the association expects construction activity to grow by 1.1 per cent year-on-year.

The SBC experts observed different developments in the individual sectors of the construction industry in the quarter under review. Commercial construction, for example, was 7 per cent weaker than in the first quarter of 2024. By contrast, construction activity in public building construction increased by 23 per cent at the same time. In civil engineering, a decline in private construction activity was largely offset by growth of 2.8 per cent in the much stronger public civil engineering sector. The bottom line is that construction activity in civil engineering fell by around 2 per cent.

In the press release, the SBC emphasises the “surprisingly” positive development in residential construction. At CHF 1.7 billion, turnover here was 2.4 per cent higher than in the same quarter of the previous year. The SBC experts consider the 11 per cent year-on-year growth in new orders observed at the same time to be “particularly pleasing”. They attribute this to the increased number of building applications in the previous year, which is now “gradually being reflected in the order books”.

June 2025
Regional construction industry meets in Baden

On 15 May, city com baden wants to bring together the construction and property companies in the Baden region. To this end, the association of tradespeople and retailers in the city of Baden is organising the Industry Get-Together 2025. “The new event format promotes networking and the exchange of knowledge in the construction and property sector in the Baden region and creates synergies,” explains city com baden in a corresponding press release.

Participants will be offered insights into the regional housing situation and the development of property prices. Innovative construction and environmental solutions are also on the agenda. Marcel Koller, Chief Economist at Aargauische Kantonalbank, and representatives of the Hächler Group have been booked as speakers. The infrastructure department of the city of Baden has been secured as a partner.

Participation in the industry get-together is free of charge, but registration is required by 15 April. This can be done online or via a QR code in the press release. There, city com baden will also provide a contact for any queries.

January 2025
Swiss construction industry 2025

By 2025, sustainability will no longer be a trend, but a matter of course. Building certificates such as Minergie or SNBS and circular construction will take centre stage. Companies that reuse building materials and offer innovative solutions will secure decisive competitive advantages.

Digitalisation enters the next round
The digital transformation is reaching new dimensions. Technologies such as IoT, AI-based planning software and digital construction site management tools are being used more widely. At the same time, promoting digital skills among employees is essential in order to actively shape digital progress.

Skills shortage remains a challenge
The industry continues to be characterised by a shortage of qualified workers. Companies are increasingly investing in training and further education programmes, focusing on international recruitment and pushing ahead with automation. Modern working conditions and attractive corporate values are becoming increasingly important.

Focus on urban development and densification
Urbanisation calls for innovative concepts such as car-free zones, mixed-use districts and urban greening. At the same time, affordable housing remains one of the key challenges. Creative solutions are needed to meet the needs of the population.

Energy and raw material prices
The energy crisis and the cost of building materials remain a dominant issue. Local and sustainable building materials are gaining in importance, while legal requirements are driving the expansion of renewable energies. Solar installations and innovative heating systems are setting new standards here.

Collaboration as the key to success
The increasing complexity of construction projects requires closer cooperation between architects, engineers and technology providers. Companies that focus on partnerships benefit from synergies and can realise projects more efficiently.

January 2025
Digital next gen and AI usher in a new era

Like many other sectors, the construction and property industry is facing major challenges. Digitalisation is progressing inexorably, revolutionary technologies are emerging and sustainability requirements are constantly increasing. There is also a shortage of specialists with digital skills. “Our response to these challenges is the establishment of the ‘Digital Next Gen’ Expert Group,” says Genova. “Our aim is to bring together digital talent from across the industry and work together on innovative solutions for a sustainable and digitalised future.”

Genova brings extensive expertise from his professional career and his studies. A trip to China was particularly formative, where he gained valuable insights into digital transformation. The Digital Next Gen initiative offers him a platform to use his skills and drive forward the digital transformation in the construction and property industry.

Objectives of the “Digital Next Gen” Expert Group
Establishing a centre of excellence for digital technologies and trends to effectively tackle the digital challenges facing the construction industry.

Identify and promote innovative digital solutions and business models in Switzerland

Creating bridges between research, business and practice in order to put innovative ideas and technologies into practice more quickly.

“We aim to play a leading role in shaping the digital transformation in the construction industry,” emphasises Genova.

Opportunities and challenges of the digital evolution
Digitalisation offers significant opportunities for the construction industry, such as efficiency gains, cost reductions, more environmentally friendly construction practices and the development of new business models. However, there are also challenges such as high investment costs, data protection issues and a shortage of skilled labour. “We must tackle these challenges with determination in order to fully exploit the opportunities of digitalisation,” says Genova. “The future belongs to the brave and the pioneers, and we are ready to take on this role.”

Upcoming digital technologies and trends
The construction industry is at the beginning of a new era, characterised by groundbreaking digital technologies. Artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT) as well as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are some of the key technologies that will revolutionise the industry. “We are ready to pave the way for this digital revolution and face the challenges that lie ahead,” explains Genova.

Talent sought for the Expert Group
The Expert Group is looking for talented individuals with extensive expertise in digital technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, AR/VR and 3D printing. In addition to technological skills, an innovative spirit, experience in the construction industry, the ability to work in a team and an understanding of sustainable construction practices are important. “We are counting on a new generation of talent who are ready to take the lead in this technological revolution,” concludes Genova.

Digitalisation is not only a challenge, but also an opportunity to fundamentally transform the construction and real estate industry. The “Digital Next Gen” Expert Group is ready to actively shape this transformation and create a sustainable, digitalised future.

June 2024
Application deadline extended until the end of June

Mara Schlumpf, Managing Director of Real Estate Award AG: “There have been many innovations at the Real Estate Award this year – a new category, the French version of the homepage – so we want to give potential applicants a little more time to submit their projects.” To apply, simply fill out the form on the homepage and attach a PDF with a maximum of 4 pages. “We are happy to accept applications in all national languages and also in English,” says Mara Schlumpf

Companies from all over Switzerland have until 30 June to submit their projects for this year’s Real Estate Award. The award ceremony will take place on 24 October at the Trafo in Baden.

June 2024
Women in timber construction

Approaches and challenges
Professor Katrin Künzi Hummel from Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) has been working with women in timber construction for a long time. Based on her practical experience and scientific studies, she presented various approaches in her lecture on how timber construction companies can drive change. She emphasised that timber construction professions should not just be limited to technical production, as they also have a design aspect. This should be emphasised more in order to appeal to women. The industry and companies should rethink their communication, as content, language and images often reflect male stereotypes. In order to attract women to the timber construction profession, role models such as “Carpenter on Tour” are important to show what is possible. If women work in timber construction companies, their examples can serve as career models. In addition to the desire for a future-proof career, the compatibility of work and family also plays an important role for many women. Companies should therefore consider options such as more flexible working hours, part-time work or shift work, not just to attract female specialists.

Challenges for female carpenters
It became clear during the panel discussion at the industry event that female carpenters still have difficulties entering the industry. Camille Seidler, now a timber construction engineer at Pirmin Jung AG, criticised the lack of support during her apprenticeship as a carpenter. Lara Zwiefelhofer, known as “Carpenter on Tour” for Holzbau Schweiz, had better experiences with her employers, but emphasised that women had to work harder to be accepted. Astrid Späti’s example showed that initiative is required. She joined the operations of Späti Holzbau AG and created her own areas of responsibility. Späti pointed out that although women have access to the industry, they mainly work in the administrative area. She emphasised the importance of the network between female carpenters and female managers for the exchange of knowledge. Jürg Hugener, head of the timber construction department at Wetzikon Vocational College, was pleased about the increase in female apprentices in his field, but emphasised the need for support from teaching staff and companies in order to make training positive for women.
Timber construction, a craft steeped in tradition, is slowly but surely changing. Long dominated by men, the various professions in timber construction are increasingly opening up to the diverse talents and skills of women. However, statistics show that there is still a long way to go to achieve a better balance between men and women in skilled trades such as carpentry. In the last three years, only 1 to 2 per cent of women completed an apprenticeship as a carpenter.

Encouragement for women in the carpentry profession
At the end of the discussion, advice for aspiring female carpenters and suggestions for companies were discussed. Lara Zwiefelhofer and Camille Seidler encouraged women to simply get started. Women should have the confidence that they have the same manual skills as men. However, it also requires perseverance and the courage to openly communicate your own needs. An appreciative team culture and promotion of communication as well as investment in modern technical aids were called for from the companies. At the end of the discussion, Astrid Späti emphasised the importance of a better network for women in timber construction. Jürg Hugener supported this and called on companies to actively support female career starters.

June 2024
Losinger Marazzi implements climate strategy in its projects

What climate strategy is Losinger Marazzi pursuing?
Lennart Rogenhofer: With our climate strategy, we are pursuing the goal of reducing our CO² emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 compared to 2021. We will achieve this by focussing more on timber construction and renovation projects and by treating sustainability as a key issue in all projects. We are pursuing a scientific approach in accordance with the Science Based Targets Initiative, which also audits our target achievement, among other things.

How is the strategy being implemented in practice?
We have been fully integrating sustainability into our corporate strategy for years. Examples of this include the major projects Greencity in Zurich (Switzerland’s first 2000-watt site under development in 2012), Erlenmatt West in Basel (Switzerland’s first 2000-watt site in operation in 2013) and the sustainable Églantine neighbourhood in Morges in 2019.

Following further in-depth steps in recent years, we are systematically implementing our climate strategy. Since 2019, we have been consistently preparing a carbon footprint for the construction and operation of buildings for each project – i.e. over the entire life cycle of a project and regardless of the environmental labels we are aiming for. This has enabled us to build up a database of experience that makes it possible to estimate and reduce the emissions of future projects.

What goals is Losinger Marazzi pursuing with regard to timber construction?
Timber construction is a focal point of Losinger Marazzi’s climate strategy. This involves focussing more on building materials with low CO2 emissions, such as wood. Our climate strategy aims to minimise the life cycle emissions of a building during its construction and operation from the design stage onwards. The increased use of wood is naturally an important element here, always according to the principle of “the right material in the right place”. This means focussing on local, lightweight, bio-based materials where they are best suited in terms of their technical properties and have the greatest impact on sustainability. In addition to a reduction in CO2 emissions, this can also mean better deconstructability or a contribution to a pleasant indoor climate, for example. We are already implementing this strategy in projects such as the Greencity construction site B6 (Vergé), the administrative building of the Canton of Lucerne and the BERN 131 service building.

Current projects:
Greencity Baufeld B6 (Vergé)
In Zurich with an optimised energy concept (100 % renewable) and a materialisation fully geared towards sustainability (timber façade, lightweight interior walls, slim supporting structure, etc.)

Administrative building of the Canton of Lucerne
For around 1500 employees at Seetalplatz in Emmenbrücke (LU), including a timber atrium, SNBS Gold and Minergie-P-ECO certification

Service building BERN 131
In Wankdorf Bern with photovoltaic modules on the roof and façades, timber construction and SNBS Gold certification

Côté Parc
urban regeneration projects in Geneva and Spenglerpark in Münchenstein (BL), in which the focus was actively on utilising and upgrading the existing buildings instead of demolishing new ones

May 2024
Leading by example: circular building in the city of Zurich

The circular economy is an important lever for achieving the political net-zero targets. Like many other cities around the world, Zurich is also committed to the circular economy: in 2022, a strategy for the circular economy was adopted with “Circular Zurich”. in 2023, Zurich became the first Swiss city to sign the “Circular Cities Declaration”.

The intelligent use of resources is particularly important in construction. With the “Charter for Circular Construction”, politicians and businesses set an example in 2023 and made a joint commitment to conserving primary resources and landfill space and reducing CO2 emissions from their own construction activities.

Initial findings from two pilot projects
But how do the political commitments affect specific construction projects? What challenges does circular construction pose? And how are the planning and construction processes changing? The City of Zurich’s Office for Buildings is gaining answers to these questions through two pilot projects.

The city gained initial experience with the procurement, storage and processing of reused building components during the renovation of the Mööslistrasse 2023 kindergarten (Bischof Föhn Architekten, Zurich). Washbasins and toilets were dismantled, cleaned and refurbished on site. Plant troughs from the balconies were reused as outdoor space boundaries. Where possible, the built-in furniture was sourced from the city’s own stock. Thanks to component screening, steel beams, wooden pergolas, fire doors and kitchen elements from other buildings were identified, dismantled and reinstalled. So-called “component hunters” were deployed for everything that was not found in the city’s used parts warehouse.

The second pilot project, the new “Juch-Areal” recycling centre, is much more comprehensive. The Office for Buildings launched an architectural competition with re-use requirements for the project in 2022. The competition participants were able to use a digital catalogue of components or use other available components from non-urban sources for their designs. The buildings also had to be designed in such a way that they could later be used as a component mine themselves (design for disassembly).

The projects submitted show that it is possible: Yes, it is possible. The jury was particularly impressed by the high quality of the competition entries, which were created despite – or perhaps thanks to – the new specifications. The building material of the winning project by Graber Pulver Architekten AG (Zurich) dismantles the hall of the previous recycling centre and rebuilds it at the new location with only minor adjustments. Disposed books, magazines and clothes are used as insulation material. Sheets of recycled glass and aluminium, old kitchen covers, doors and table tops protect the façade from the weather. Discarded scaffolding is turned into storage shelves.

It is in the nature of things that pilot projects precede a standardised introduction on a broad scale. This is also the case with circular construction. The realisation of the two projects in Zurich shows that many questions still need to be clarified: How can components be catalogued? How can availability be checked? Where will they be stored? Who assumes legal liability?

The planning and construction processes will change as a result of cycle-orientated construction, because the component mines must be known as early as possible, preferably at the beginning of the planning phase. Building Information Modelling (BIM) facilitates the reuse of components, the planning of their dismantlability and the development of future component mines.

Significant savings in indirect greenhouse gas emissions in the pilot projects
The pilot projects show that this approach is worthwhile. According to a subsequent calculation, the consistent reuse of building components saved a good 30% of greenhouse gas emissions during the renovation of the Mööslistrasse kindergarten. Current calculations even predict a 40% saving in greenhouse gas emissions for the Juch-Areal recycling centre compared to a conventional new building.

May 2024
Modernisation and expansion of the south station

In a densely built-up district such as District 2, the emergency services currently only reach the scene within the critical ten-minute mark in around 60% of cases. The planned expansion and redesign of the southern fire and ambulance station addresses this problem with a comprehensive approach aimed at shortening response times and increasing the efficiency of the services. At the same time, the project aims to enhance the urban development of the area, which is in line with the redesign of the urban space through the demolition of Weststrasse and the new construction of the “Hohe Haus West”.

The winning project from the architectural competition, “FUCHS”, creates a seamless integration into the existing structure of the fire station. The extension blends in harmoniously with the existing building in terms of both height and alignment and harmoniously completes the perimeter of the block. Particularly noteworthy are the courtyard-side extensions with shed roofs and photovoltaics as well as a setback from the first floor, which give the new building a striking independence. These architectural features make it possible to master the balancing act between preserving the historical heritage and fulfilling state-of-the-art operational requirements.

The “FUCHS” project not only impresses with its aesthetic and functional integration into the existing building fabric, but also sets new ecological standards. Thanks to the environmentally friendly energy supply, which is based 100 per cent on renewable energies, and the generously dimensioned photovoltaic system on the shed roofs, a contribution is being made to climate protection. In addition, the design optimises the operational processes of Schutz & Rettung Zürich and creates a coherent unit of high spatial quality.

The project impressively illustrates how the challenges of modern emergency care can be mastered in a historical context through creative and innovative solutions. The careful balancing of the needs of the emergency services and the requirements of heritage conservation has resulted in a project that breaks new ground both functionally and aesthetically. The result is a sustainable infrastructure that meets the requirements of modern emergency services and at the same time makes a valuable contribution to the urban quality of the location.

May 2024
New investor for sustainable construction start-ups

Buildify.earth was founded with the vision of supporting sustainable innovation in the construction industry. The investment company is particularly involved in the early development phases of start-ups and offers not only capital but also access to an extensive network. This network has been established over the years as part of the development of Switzerland Innovation Park Central, NEST and other organisations and is a valuable asset for the supported companies.

Strategic partnerships and long-term goals
Eight years ago, planning began for the location of the Innovation Park in Central Switzerland, which opened its doors in Rotkreuz in 2019 and has officially been part of Switzerland Innovation since 2021. The park now has over 100 members, including well-known players in the Swiss construction industry and research institutions. This network provides direct access to decision-makers and a platform for start-ups to forge important collaborations in a traditionally risk-averse industry.

Provision of funding and resources
The funds provided by private investors, the Zuger Kantonalbank and the park itself, which amount to a single-digit million sum, will enable buildify.earth to make significant initial investments, which are to be announced soon. The investment pipeline is richly filled, including 40 startups that are already members of the park. Buildify.earth AG takes a flexible role as a co-investor that can act quickly and act as a catalyst for further investments.

Long-term planning and open doors for further investors
Reto Largo and Sem Mattli, the heads of buildify.earth, are not only looking for promising start-ups, but also for further investors to strengthen the capital of the company’s evergreen structure. This structure fits well with the long innovation cycles in the construction sector and allows a portion of the proceeds to be reinvested while seeking attractive returns for investors. This is just the beginning of a long-term strategy aimed at making substantial investments in promising start-ups and actively shaping the future of the sustainable construction industry.

May 2024
“Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz” – A new trade association for the construction and recycling industry

With the founding of “Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz”, the merger of arv Baustoffrecycling Schweiz and FSKB Fachverband der Schweizerischen Kies- und Betonindustrie has created an important new trade association. The aim of this merger is to make a significant contribution to the future of the construction and recycling industry in Switzerland. The focus is on securing the supply of mineral raw materials and promoting a value-preserving recycling economy.

Unity and strength through member merger
Over 400 members have formally approved the merger after the decision was taken at the respective general meetings. The new trade association aims to expand its expertise, recognise upcoming challenges and play an active role in shaping the Swiss construction industry. The high level of organisation and broad representation at the time of foundation demonstrate the strong foundation of “Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz”.

Focus on a sustainable circular economy
The trade association is particularly committed to the sustainable use of mineral raw materials in order to respond to the increasing scarcity of resources. The focus is on maintaining building materials in the economic cycle, developing environmentally friendly technologies and methods and working closely with universities, research institutions and companies. A new competence centre will help to reduce the ecological impact of the industry and restore the quality of habitats after gravel extraction.

Strategically securing the supply of raw materials
Another focus is the security of supply and disposal of mineral building materials, which is becoming increasingly challenging due to growing scarcity and strict protective regulations. The association strives to ensure the supply of construction sites and optimise the reuse of building materials.

Innovative leadership and extensive networking
Under the leadership of Lionel Lathion, supplemented by a versatile vice-presidency and a broad-based board, the association not only aims to pool expertise, but also to intensify cooperation at cantonal and regional level. In this way, “Baustoff Kreislauf Schweiz” is positioning itself as a central point of contact for politicians and authorities with a high level of expertise and problem-solving skills.

May 2024
App revolutionises asbestos control in buildings

Asbestos remains a major problem in the construction industry, even decades after it was banned. Improper renovation or demolition work on affected buildings can release dangerous asbestos fibres that pose a significant health risk. The latest VDI standard DIN 6202 Sheet 3 sets new standards for precise pollutant analyses, which can be efficiently implemented using the “IK Report App”.

The app presented by Robin Krepp, Managing Director and co-founder of IK-Report GmbH, enables direct data acquisition on mobile devices, which reduces the need for subsequent digitisation and considerably simplifies the process of pollutant testing. The intuitive user interface and instant processing of data allows professionals to act quickly and accurately, without time-consuming manual steps.

The app integrates advanced functions such as the linking of findings and the automatic calculation of the certainty of results in accordance with VDI 6202 Sheet 3. These functions allow precise planning of sampling and adaptation to new findings during the inspection. A further advantage is the avoidance of transmission errors through direct digital recording, which improves the accuracy of the data and the allocation of photos and site plans.

In addition to recording asbestos, the app can also be used for other pollutants and supports the documentation and evaluation of air measurements and fire dampers containing asbestos. The range of applications of the IK Report app makes it an essential tool for the modern construction industry, which not only increases efficiency but also significantly improves health safety in construction.

April 2024
Markus von Gunten joins the management of the Admicasa Group

As part of its ongoing expansion and commitment to quality and comprehensive expertise, the Admicasa Group has announced a significant recruitment. Markus von Gunten, founder of von Gunten Baumanagement AG and its successful director until the end of 2020, has been appointed a member of the Executive Board by the Board of Directors of Admicasa Holding AG. This decision underlines the Admicasa Group’s endeavour to further expand its leading position in the construction sector and strengthen the interdisciplinary solutions it offers its customers.

Von Gunten, whose company has planned and realised projects with a total value of over one billion Swiss francs during his time at the helm, brings extensive expertise and high quality standards to the company. Since the takeover of his company by the Admicasa Group, von Gunten has been Chairman of the Board of Directors of Admicasa Bauwerk AG and has already made a significant contribution to strengthening the construction segment in this role.

Serge Aerne, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Admicasa Group, emphasises that the integration of Markus von Gunten into the Executive Board is strategically important for the further development of the company. Aerne emphasises that von Gunten’s 40 years of experience and his extensive knowledge of the property sector are a valuable asset to the team and will make a decisive contribution to achieving the Group’s goals in terms of growth, quality and customer satisfaction.

With this move, the Admicasa Group is sending a clear signal that it will continue to rely on strong leadership and deep industry knowledge to consolidate its position in the market and expand its services beyond the boundaries of the traditional property business. The appointment of Markus von Gunten underlines the Group’s commitment to excellence and innovation in an ever-changing market.

April 2024
Digital standstill in the property industry

The sixth edition of the “Digital Real Estate Index” shows a slight decline in the digital maturity of the industry for the first time since 2020, with a rating of 4.6 on a scale of 1 to 10. Despite progress made by planners and construction companies through Building Information Modelling (BIM), the development among owners and investors is lagging behind expectations.

Although two thirds of the companies surveyed invest more than one percent of their turnover in digitalisation, there is a downward trend among larger companies. External factors such as interest rate changes and supply chain problems appear to be hampering digital transformation, while regulatory requirements in the area of sustainability are acting as a catalyst for digitalisation efforts.

While AI and machine learning are still lagging behind expectations in terms of their applicability and integration into the industry, BIM is consolidating itself as an important technology for the entire life cycle of buildings. The use of smart building technologies is increasing, with the focus on resource conservation and other benefits such as user experience and comfort initially taking a back seat.

The study shows that the property industry is at a critical point in its digital evolution. Despite the obvious potential of digital technologies and the need for greater integration to increase efficiency and sustainability, concrete measures and investments are needed to drive the digital transformation forward. The study provides important insights and serves as a guideline for future developments in the digital landscape of the property industry.

March 2024
Hilti Switzerland develops support system for new KSB building

According to a press release,Hilti Switzerland has “developed a coordinated, cross-trade fastening technology specifically for the new hospital in collaboration with the Baden Cantonal Hospital(KSB) and the planners, engineers and contractors involved, which all companies were able to work with right from the start”.

It represents progress in the construction industry and could be used in other highly complex construction projects in the future, which also have to fulfil high technical requirements in terms of earthquake safety and fire protection. “We are not only achieving a technically and economically sophisticated solution, but also the safest and therefore most sustainable one,” says Marco Lüthi, project engineer for hospital construction at the Swiss representative of Hilti AG in Schaan, based in Adliswil.

The new concept is intended for multi-storey buildings. The pioneering achievement consists of a holistic approach, they say. The joint solution puts an end to a common practice whereby each company designed and installed its own fixings and substructures. The isolated approach had made the processes inefficient.

Thanks to the multiple bracket developed by Hilti, the heating, plumbing, ventilation, air conditioning and electrical trades were able to work together from the outset. This resulted in 60 per cent fewer fixing points (drill holes) and 50 per cent fewer cuts and items. Prefabrication and the elimination of separate brackets meant that the building services companies needed almost 50 per cent less time for installation. The use of lifting platforms, ladders and scaffolding was also reduced, thus minimising the risk of injury for construction workers. Sustainability has also benefited: In comparison with conventional fastening systems, 50 per cent of CO2 was saved.

The new KSB building is expected to cost 580 million and is scheduled to go into operation in autumn 2024.

March 2024
HKG remodels traditional Aarau garage

The engineering and consulting firm Herzog Kull Group Holding AG (HKG) is converting the Aarhof Garage in Aarau into a modern office building and will also use it itself, according to a press release. The garage was built in 1950 and will meet modern building standards following the renovation, according to the HKG press release. 45 office workstations are to be created on the ground floor. The project is being realised by HKG together with the Aarau architectural firm Schneider & Schneider. In addition to the offices, there will also be meeting rooms, a break room and a kitchen.

In its press release, HKG refers to a report in the “Aargauer Zeitung” newspaper, according to which the costs will amount to CHF 3.2 million. Work on the conversion is scheduled to begin in 2024, probably in late summer. The refurbishment, conversions and new buildings on the upper floor should be completed by mid-September 2025.

According to HKG, three two-and-a-half-room loft flats with high ceilings will be built on the upper floor. As the area around the Traditionsgarage was traditionally a green spot in Aarau, a green space is to be created again in memory of the historic gardens, according to the press release.

Founded in Aarau in 1978, HKG specialises in innovative building technology ranging from electricity planning to building automation. HKG also specialises in renewable energies such as photovoltaics.

In addition to its headquarters in Aarau, HKG has offices in Schlieren ZH, Baden, Bern, Chur GR, Crissier VD, Lucerne, Olten SO, Pratteln BL, Rotkreuz ZG, St.Gallen and Vilters SG. HKG employs around 200 permanent staff, including 89 with higher technical qualifications, 65 with technical qualifications, 23 commercial and administrative staff and 23 apprentices.

March 2024
Beschleunigung der Baubewilligungsprozesse dringend erforderlich

Angesichts dieser Entwicklungen werden in verschiedenen Kantonen Massnahmen diskutiert, um die Baubewilligungsverfahren zu straffen. So plant der Kanton Luzern, das bestehende Bewilligungsverfahren durch ein einfacheres Meldeverfahren zu ersetzen, während im Kanton Freiburg Baugesuche automatisch als genehmigt gelten sollen, falls die Bearbeitungsfrist überschritten wird.

Der Schweizerische Baumeisterverband (SBV) setzt sich auf allen Regierungsebenen für eine Beschleunigung der Baubewilligungsprozesse ein. Als Lösungsansatz gilt unter anderem die Digitalisierung der gesamten Prozesskette, von der Planung bis zur Realisierung. Ebenso wichtig ist die Bekämpfung grundloser Einsprachen, die lediglich dem Ziel dienen, Bauvorhaben zu verzögern. Der SBV befürwortet eine Begrenzung der Einsprache Möglichkeiten auf relevante Aspekte und eine Einführung von Kostenbeteiligungen bei Einsprachen, um den Missbrauch des Systems einzudämmen.

Die Initiativen zur Vereinfachung der Baubewilligungsprozesse und zur Verhinderung missbräuchlicher Einsprachen sind entscheidend, um die dringend benötigte Schaffung von Wohnraum zu fördern und die Wohnungsknappheit effektiv zu bekämpfen. Mit diesen Massnahmen soll sichergestellt werden, dass Bauprojekte zügig und effizient realisiert werden können, ohne dass der rechtliche Schutz der Bürgerinnen und Bürger beeinträchtigt wird.

March 2024
Digitalisation in the construction industry low investment, big impact

The construction industry is increasingly facing the challenge of making its processes sustainable and efficient. According to Moritz Lüscher, digitalisation plays a key role in achieving these goals. By optimising construction processes with digital tools, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can also strengthen their competitiveness without having to invest in large purchases.

Digitalisation is increasingly influencing the awarding of construction contracts, with sustainability and digitalisation skills coming to the fore. SBV supports its members in harmonising the requirements of clients with their own skills and thus effectively implementing the digital transformation.

The trend towards a sharing economy also offers new opportunities in the construction industry. Construction companies can efficiently share machinery and equipment, thereby saving costs and resources. Digital platforms, such as Faroo, make it easier to rent and hire construction equipment and promote the shared use of resources.

In order to approach digitalisation strategically, it is crucial for construction companies to determine their level of digital maturity and develop a suitable strategy based on this. SBC supports this with personalised advice and tools for self-assessment and strategy development. The aim is to achieve a customised digital transformation, which can range from pure process automation to comprehensive digital master plans.

Finally, the involvement of employees in the digital transformation process is of central importance. Promoting digital skills and creating a common understanding are essential in order to utilise the new technologies effectively and secure the company’s long-term success. Digitalisation in the construction industry will continue to gain in importance in the coming years. New technologies and requirements, such as AI and BIM, will drive the industry forward and model-based construction could become the new standard in ten years’ time. The SBC is endeavouring to prepare its members for this future and accompany them on the path to digital transformation.

February 2024
Wingtra’s mapping drones support the French construction industry

Wintgra and SITECH France, a digital construction and digital solutions company owned by Trimble, have entered into a partnership. According to an announcement from Wingtra, this collaboration brings together its own mapping drones as a supplier of valuable geodata with SITECH’s expertise in the use of digital technologies for earthworks, road and linear projects, topographical measures, quarries and technical landfills. The French company is based in the Île-de-France region.

As SITECH enables the seamless integration of Wingtra’s reliable data acquisition, this partnership will advance the industry with improved geodata. This will serve to model construction sites more efficiently, improve project planning and optimise processes.

According to the press release, both partners are supporting proactive companies in building smarter. This emphasises their commitment to innovation, productivity and reducing the carbon footprint in the construction industry.

January 2024
Basler Baubranche in der Krise – Appell an die Regierung

Die Basler Baubranche, vertreten durch Oscar Elias, CEO der Stamm Bau AG, richtet einen dringenden Appell an die Regierung, um auf die wachsenden Herausforderungen im Wohnungsbau aufmerksam zu machen. In einem persönlichen Schreiben an Regierungsrat Kaspar Sutter verdeutlicht Elias die Sorgen der Branche, die durch das neue Wohnschutzgesetz und einen deutlichen Rückgang von Sanierungs- und Umbauprojekten stark betroffen ist.

Die Stamm Bau AG, die 2023 ihr 180-jähriges Bestehen feiert, hat ihren Sitz in Arlesheim, erhält jedoch die Mehrheit ihrer Aufträge aus Basel. Elias betont, dass insbesondere Sanierungsprojekte, die für zwei Drittel des Umsatzes der Firma verantwortlich sind, durch das Wohnschutzgesetz komplett zum Stillstand gekommen seien. Dies führt zu einer signifikanten Planungsunsicherheit, wodurch Projekte unberechenbar und risikoreich werden.

Der Brief beleuchtet die Notwendigkeit eines Handlungsbedarfs, da die Baubranche bereits die negativen Auswirkungen des Gesetzes auf die Wirtschaft und den Arbeitsmarkt spürt. Elias äußert seine Bedenken, dass die momentane Situation die Bausubstanz der Stadt und den Wohnungsmarkt gefährdet. Er fordert von der Regierung eine Lockerung der Regularien für Wohnen und Bauen, eine Einschränkung der Einsprachemöglichkeiten sowie Anreize für mehr Sanierungen und die Schaffung von neuem Wohnraum.

Die Reaktion des Mieterverbands und des Kantons deutet darauf hin, dass eine Anpassung der Praxis und eine aktivere Information über das Wohnschutzgesetz notwendig sind, um die Investitionsbereitschaft der Eigentümer wiederherzustellen. Der Kanton Basel-Stadt ist aktuell mit der Evaluation der Auswirkungen des Wohnschutzes beschäftigt, und Regierungsrat Sutter signalisiert in seiner Antwort an Elias die Bereitschaft, bei Bedarf Korrekturen vorzunehmen.

Für Elias und die Basler Baubranche ist jedoch klar: Es besteht dringender Handlungsbedarf, um die Herausforderungen im Wohnungsbau zu meistern und die Planungssicherheit für Eigentümer und Investoren wiederherzustellen.

January 2024
Ein erfolgreicher Treffpunkt der Baubranche

Die Swissbau 2024 zog in diesem Jahr mit ihrer beeindruckenden 85’000 m² großen Ausstellungsfläche 52’486 Besucherinnen und Besucher an. Die Messe bot eine einzigartige Gelegenheit für Fachleute aus der Bau- und Immobilienbranche, sich über aktuelle Innovationen und Trends zu informieren und wertvolle Kontakte zu knüpfen. Im Fokus der Veranstaltung stand der Wissenstransfer, angereichert durch Diskussionen und praktische Demonstrationen auf den Plattformen Swissbau Focus und Lab.

Die Messe, die traditionell alle zwei Jahre stattfindet, war in diesem Jahr von einer besonderen Dynamik geprägt. Im Zentrum stand der persönliche Austausch, der angesichts der zunehmenden Digitalisierung und der Beliebtheit von Videokonferenzen eine neue Qualität erlangte. Unter dem Motto “Den Wandel gemeinsam gestalten” bot die Swissbau vielfältige Plattformen für Produkterlebnisse, Informationsaustausch und Networking.

Erstmals entschieden sich die Veranstalter, die Messe auf vier Tage zu verkürzen und den wenig geschätzten Samstag aus dem Programm zu nehmen. Dieser Schritt wurde von Ausstellern und Besuchern positiv aufgenommen, da die Qualität der Gespräche und die Bereitschaft zur Auftragsvergabe gesteigert wurden. Die Messe zog Expertinnen und Experten aus verschiedenen Fachbereichen wie Architektur, Planungswesen, Immobilien und Handwerk an.

Rudolf Pfander, Messeleiter der Swissbau, unterstrich die Bedeutung der Messe als Plattform für neue Angebote und die Entwicklung innovativer Konzepte. Die diesjährige Messe beinhaltete neu geschaffene Marktplätze für Begegnungen und die Designbühne Swissbau Inside, die das Fachpublikum und private Bauinteressierte gleichermaßen begeisterten.

Die Leitthemen der Swissbau, wie Kreislaufwirtschaft, Energie, Digitalisierung und Lebensraum, spiegelten die aktuellen Herausforderungen der Branche wider. Die Kollaborations-Plattformen Swissbau Focus und Lab boten in intensiver Vorarbeit ein hochkarätiges Programm, das diese Themen adressierte.

Namhafte Partnerschaften mit Organisationen wie dem SIA, Schweizerischer Ingenieur- und Architektenverein sowie Bauen digital Schweiz / buildingSMART Switzerland zeigten die anhaltende Relevanz der Swissbau. Ebenso zufrieden zeigten sich die Themenpartner Hörmann, Laufen und Siemens mit dem Messeverlauf.

Die nächste Swissbau wird vom 20. bis 23. Januar 2026 stattfinden. Bis dahin bleibt die Swissbau-Website eine wichtige Informationsquelle für die Branche, mit Fachwissen, Standpunkten und Neuheiten aus der Bau- und Immobilienwelt.

January 2024
This is the new Real Estate Award

The new website is intuitive, informative and works on all end devices. An area for media professionals, newsletter registration and the integration of social media reinforce the interactive component of the website.

The award categories have also been refreshed. “I’m particularly pleased about the new ‘Sustainability’ category, which didn’t exist at the award before,” says Mara Schlumpf. “Sustainability is multifaceted. It is becoming increasingly important in the property and construction industry. The topic deserves its own category.”

Following the comprehensive rebranding, the date for the next Real Estate Award has now also been set: the coveted awards will be presented on 24 October 2024 at the Trafo in Baden (AG). Various innovations await the guests at the awards ceremony. “We have reviewed, revised and adapted the concept. It was important for us to respond to feedback from partners and guests,” says Mara Schlumpf. “That’s why the event will now take place in autumn instead of summer. We have also chosen a more exclusive venue with the Trafo Baden.”

January 2024
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.

October 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.

September 2023
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.

September 2023
Master builders want to respond to the study on the shortage of skilled workers

“Our industry is doing well after three years of permanent crisis,” said Central President Gian-Luca Lardi, welcoming the more than 550 guests to the Construction Industry Day at the LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura cultural centre. “The master builders have learned to deal with the effects of the Ukraine war, just as they did before with the price increases and supply bottlenecks in the wake of the Corona pandemic.” And the future outlook is also quite positive in the medium to long term, according to Lardi. Construction activity should continue to grow, “albeit at a somewhat slower pace”. While strong growth is forecast for residential construction until 2040, mild growth to stagnation is expected in commercial construction, public building construction and public civil engineering. At the same time, builders can look forward to prices for building materials gradually falling again.

SBC study shows: Shortage of skilled workers endangers jobs
The focus of this year’s networking event was on the shortage of skilled workers and what mix of measures can be used to combat it. Today, the search for suitable employees at all levels is a major challenge for many tradespeople, including master builders. And it can be assumed that the situation will get even worse. With far-reaching consequences. “Without enough qualified craftsmen, important construction projects in our country can no longer be realised,” Lardi explained. To prevent such a scenario, the Swiss Association of Master Builders commissioned the Demographics Competence Centre to conduct a “Study on the Long-Term Development of the Economy and Skilled Workers in the Main Construction Industry”. Now the results of the study are public: while the demand for skilled workers in the main construction sector continues to rise, the supply is falling. By 2040, the shortage of skilled workers in the most important professions in the main construction industry – measured in terms of construction volume – is expected to reach 16 percent. Without countermeasures, there would be a shortage of about 30 percent of the required employees, i.e. about 2,500 skilled workers, among bricklayers and masons alone. This has an impact on turnover: If no measures were taken, the construction industry would lose up to 800 million Swiss francs annually due to the lack of skilled workers, or 13 billion Swiss francs in total over the next 20 years, adjusted for prices.

Digitalisation and personnel recruitment as hopefuls
The study points to several solutions against the shortage of skilled workers. “If we increase turnover per capita by 0.5 per cent annually, we can make up for 50 per cent of the shortage of skilled workers,” Gian-Luca Lardi reassured, however. This increase in productivity is to be achieved mainly with the help of digitalisation and through innovations. At the same time, the industry must do everything it can to “train more apprentices, keep skilled workers in the profession longer and ultimately recruit more lateral entrants”. In this way, the other half of the skills gap could be closed. The study points out several levers that can be tightened. For foremen and forewomen, where the shortage will develop less precariously than in other construction professions, lateral entrants already play an important role today. With targeted career and junior staff planning and support, the number of people in management positions can be increased. In apprenticeship training, it is very important to motivate young people to successfully complete their bricklaying apprenticeship and also to stay in the main construction trade in the long term. The decisive factor is not only the management and company culture, but above all the many great, “cool” construction projects that the young people can actively shape. Then they see that their work offers meaning and creates sustainable values.

Lardi ended his speech with an appeal to all project participants, i.e. builders, planners, specialists, construction companies and political decision-makers alike: “We will only be able to realise our future building park and infrastructures if we work together in true partnership and at eye level.”

Source: https://baumeister.swiss/

July 2023
Hilti wants to take over 4PS Group

The Hilti Group is seeking to acquire the 4PS Group. The Dutch company, which is headquartered in Ede and has branches in the UK, Belgium and Germany, specialises in software for business processes in the construction industry, Hilti informs in a corresponding statement. According to the statement, the acquisition is still subject to the approval of the relevant supervisory authorities. No details of the purchase price are given in the release.

“As a company that works closely with its customers and focuses on driving the digital transformation of the construction industry, 4PS Group is a perfect fit for Hilti,” Thomas Hillbrand, member of the Hilti Group Executive Board, is quoted as saying in the release. “We share the conviction that optimised business processes offer enormous productivity potential for the construction industry.” The corresponding offering from 4PS is intended to complement Hilti’s software offering for working capital management and construction site management.

The company’s 4PS Construct software is based on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and provides functions for managing construction projects. Construction companies can use it to control their profitability and plan and manage the use of resources. “By integrating our services and cloud solutions into Hilti’s portfolio, we will become an even stronger digitalisation partner for the construction industry,” explains Paula Middelkoop, Director Product & Development at 4PS Group. The approximately 350 employees, including the management of 4PS, are to remain with the company under the umbrella of the Hilti Group.

July 2023
Buildup and Smartconext together for digitalisation in the construction industry

The Zurich-based innovation partner for the digitalisation of construction product information, buildup, has agreed on a strategic cooperation with the Zug-based company smartconext, which specialises in digital order acquisition. Together, the two partners want to promote the digitalisation of the construction industry and here in particular the supplier industry, buildup explains in a statement. To this end, a joint offer will be created for manufacturers in the Swiss market.

Specifically, product information from buildup’s database will be integrated into smartconext’s automated order acquisition. For Dominik Mahn, founder and CEO of smartconext, this is a logical and consistent step in the further development of the company’s technology, according to the statement. The redirection to the products on the buildup platform creates “an intuitive customer journey with significant added value for architects and planners, as well as for the construction industry itself”. For buildup, in turn, the cooperation with smartconext will “strongly concretise the connection to various sales channels in order to open up further digital touchpoints for the manufacturer partners in addition to established partnerships”.

July 2023
FRZ Airport Region Zurich invites to the 9th Real Estate Summit

The Economic and Location Promotion FRZ Airport Region Zurich, based in Glattbrugg, invites you to the 9th Real Estate Summit in Dübendorf. On 4 July, speakers from the construction and real estate industry will deal with new forms of cooperation, sustainability, energy and mobility, according to a media release.

Accordingly, Ursina Kubli, head of real estate analytics at the Zürcher Kantonalbank, will speak from 1.30 p.m. about the development from abundance to scarcity on the real estate market and how the demand for office space is shaping up in times of home office. Afterwards, Marco Faiss, co-founder at em2, will show new ways of cooperation in construction projects.

Bernd Hofer, CEO of Freo Switzerland, and Sophie Stigliano, Director at Urban Standards, will address sustainable building and the question of climate-friendly mobility as an integral part in their presentation “Green Only Development and the Leverage of Neighbourhood Mobility”.

After a coffee break and opportunities for networking, the second part of the programme continues at 4.30 pm. Here Hannes Pichler, Director of Real Estate at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich(ETH), will speak about integrated project management against the background of the circular economy and digitalisation.

Jens-Uwe Meyer, management mastermind, book author and digital entrepreneur, will address the audience with the last paper of the day, “Reset! Strategies for the Decade of Radical Change”, he looks to the future. The evening will conclude with an aperitif and the opportunity to network.

Admission to The Hall is from 11 am. Registration for participation is possible online.

June 2023
Yes to the partial revision of the Environmental Protection Act gives additional impetus to the circular economy

Construction activity in Switzerland produces around 57 million tonnes of excavated material and 17 million tonnes of excavated material per year. The term “waste” should not be used in this context, as it tempts one to confuse the statistics with the volume of rubbish that is disposed of. Rather, this total of 74 million tonnes of material is an indication of how many tonnes of excavated and spoil material accumulates as a valuable resource, much of which can be recycled. In order to make the best possible use of this, ideal legal framework conditions are needed. Such improvements are included in the partial revision of the Environmental Protection Act, which the National Council will deal with on 3 May 2023 during the special session.

SBC already supported the goal of creating an appropriate framework in the Environmental Protection Act for a modern and environmentally friendly circular economy during the consultation process in February 2022. The chosen regulatory approach consisting of a mixture of incentives, competences for regulation and promotion instruments seems to be purposeful. However, it is important to underline that the companies in the construction industry have long since implemented many of the main concerns of the revision on a voluntary basis. In addition, important legal foundations have already been created, such as the Ordinance on the Prevention and Disposal of Waste (VVEA). This gives high priority to the avoidance, reduction and targeted recycling of waste.

Close coordination with the construction industry is important
With life-cycle-optimised buildings, resources and materials can generally be kept in circulation or recycled over several object life cycles without any loss of quality or functionality. The construction industry has already developed many innovative solutions in this regard and will continue to develop them. However, the choice of materials for building projects is made by the clients, architects and planners and not by the building contractors. It is important to convince them to integrate the circular economy at a very early stage in project development. SBC therefore appeals to these stakeholder groups and to politicians to coordinate closely with builders in the implementation of the Environmental Protection Act in order to make use of the know-how of the entire construction industry and to prevent inhibiting framework conditions or false incentives. Another key issue for the SBC is the compatibility of the Swiss Environmental Protection Act with international standards and regulatory requirements. It is explicitly important to take developments in the EU into account in order to prevent a Swiss Finish and the resulting trade barriers.

Abandonment of national limit values for grey energy
SBC suggests that national limit values for grey energy be abandoned. In practice, the correct recording of grey energy in new buildings and renovations is tantamount to a Herculean task that is likely to fail – or worse – could deliver distorting results. The end result would be a de facto ban on certain construction methods and materials, which in turn would lead to immense increases in the cost of buildings. Instead of such limit values, which are unsuitable in practice, the tendering of buildings should always be oriented towards the required or desired function and not towards specific building materials. This is determined by the demands on the building. It is important to consider not only the conservation of resources, but also overall sustainability for the environment, the economy and society.

May 2023