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  • Highlights and winners of the Real Estate Award 2025

    Highlights and winners of the Real Estate Award 2025

    Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin opened the event with a concise and motivating welcome message. He praised the innovative strength and courage of the players to take on challenges and emphasized how important the real estate industry is for the future of Switzerland, its prosperity and the quality of its location – especially in times of global change.

    Visions and insights from Samih Sawiris
    Another highlight was the fireside chat with Samih Sawiris, the internationally renowned entrepreneur and urban developer. Sawiris provided exclusive insights into the complex tasks and visions of his projects, particularly in the Alpine tourism center of Andermatt. His sustainable and collaborative approach to the development of hotels, residential properties and infrastructure impressed the audience and highlighted the value of long-term investment for regional transformation.

    Networking, entertainment and an inspiring atmosphere
    The event offered plenty of space for networking and knowledge sharing. Visitors enjoyed a varied supporting program with culinary highlights, musical accompaniment by the band “Three of a kind” and humorous performances by comedian Benjamin Delahaye. The mixture of professional exchange, social get-togethers and entertainment created a successful atmosphere for knowledge transfer and industry cohesion.

    Discerning jury ensures objectivity and quality
    The winners were selected by a renowned jury of experienced industry professionals comprising André Robert Spathelf, Karin Aeberhard, Daniel Löhr, Anita Horner and Gaétan Kameni. The jury supplemented the public vote with a well-founded professional assessment to ensure a transparent and balanced result.

    The 2025 award winners – innovation, sustainability and leadership
    The winners awarded with trophies reflect the diversity and future orientation of the industry.

    Marketing: Avendo AG impressed with an innovative platform that digitally connects property owners, agents and tenants and optimizes the rental process.

    Digital: Evorest AG earned the prize for a digital rental deposit solution with attractive investment options, which was also highly rated by the public.

    Sustainability: Mobimo AG was recognized for its resource-saving renovation projects, exemplarily implemented in Zurich’s Friesenberg district.

    Project development and innovation: Stiftung Umwelt Arena Spreitenbach was recognized for the development of a methanol hybrid box for summer electricity storage.

    Real Estate Personality of the Year: Beatrice Bichsel, a leading strategic manager, received the crystal glass trophy for pioneering development at SBB and her commitment to modern urban development around railroad stations.

    The Real Estate Award 2025 was much more than just an award ceremony. It consolidates its role as a beacon for innovation, sustainability and excellence in the Swiss real estate and construction industry. A spirit of innovation, social responsibility and professional expertise determine the successes of today and pave the way for a prosperous, sustainable construction industry of the future.

  • Wave physics opens up new insights into bridge stability

    Wave physics opens up new insights into bridge stability

    Mondaic AG, based in Zurich, has entered into a joint project with the Swiss Federal Roads Office(FEDRO). The company, a spin-off of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich(ETH), intends to test the stability and structure of bridges using software developed on the basis of wave physics, according to a statement from the ETH.

    The technology uses an ultrasound device to emit waves against the structure to be analysed. A type of seismometer receives the incoming waves on the opposite side. Deviations are recorded in comparison with an existing model and thus structural changes are detected. The existing model is a digital twin of the object to be analysed, the bridges, whose wave pattern is based on an intact structure. If the wave patterns deviate from each other, this allows conclusions to be drawn that there must be cracks in the structure and where they are located.

    The software and seismometer were developed at ETH and used for NASA’s InSight mission to recognise structures on Mars. “What enabled us to look inside Mars in 2018 is now helping us to look inside bridges, aircraft parts and other materials without having to cut them open or drill into them,” says Christian Boehm, co-developer and now Managing Director of Mondaic, in the press release.

    Mondaic offers both software and complete solutions for testing – including sensor technology, cloud solutions and consulting. This means that even users without specialist knowledge of wave physics can utilise the technology.

  • New rental models for dynamic working environments

    New rental models for dynamic working environments

    The Lista Office LO brand from Lista Office Group AG aims to bring flexibility to dynamic companies. To this end, the office outfitter from Degersheim has expanded its range to include a rental model for office furniture. Furniture as a Service offers customers “a resource-saving and recyclable solution for short-term or rapidly changing furnishing requirements”, Lista Office LO explains in a press release.

    In the press release, the company describes its new range as “consistently demand-orientated”, “consistently budget-orientated” and “consistently recyclable”. Strengthening the circular economy is at the centre of these considerations. At Lista Office LO, every item of rental furniture is checked after it is returned, refurbished “and offered for rent again in as-new condition”. Items that are no longer usable are recycled.

    The company lists the advantages of rental furniture for temporary use under the keyword “needs-orientated”. The desired room furnishings can be set up quickly for a monthly rental fee and can also be changed quickly if necessary. Lista Office LO writes that the rental model offers greater economic leeway for the company budget compared to the purchase of office equipment.

  • Climate-friendly heat supply for Zofingen and Oftringen

    Climate-friendly heat supply for Zofingen and Oftringen

    StWZ Energie AG and Primeo Energie want to jointly create a sustainable district heating supply in the lower Wiggertal valley. To this end, the energy service providers have founded the joint company Fernwärme Unteres Wiggertal AG (FUWI) as of 19 September 2025. The aim is to combine “infrastructure, customer proximity and energy expertise” in order to further develop the heat supply in a climate-friendly way.

    The new network is to be operated using waste heat from the erzo-KVA waste incineration plant and from existing decentralised StWZ energy centres. Existing heating networks from StWZ in Zofingen and Primeo Energie in Oftringen are to be integrated.

    The first households are to be supplied with low-CO2 heat energy from the new network from summer 2027. Two phases are planned for the expansion. Phase one is to begin in 2026 from the erzo-KVA waste incineration plant and run towards Oftringen Süd and Zofingen. The second phase will follow in 2030 at the earliest and will depend on the planned new construction of the waste incineration plant. This will require the consent of the people of Oftringen for the zoning of a required piece of land. If both construction phases go into operation, 10,000 households could be supplied with heat and 30,000 tonnes of CO2 could be saved.

    Michael Schneider, Managing Director of Primeo Wärme AG, sees the energy revolution as a heating revolution. This step lays a “foundation stone for a long-term sustainable heat supply in the lower Wiggertal”. “By combining regional energy sources with modern technology, we are reducing CO2 emissions in a targeted manner and expanding the supply of reliable, decarbonised heat,” Paul Marbach, Managing Director of StWZ Energie AG, is quoted as saying.

  • Lukmanierstrasse receives new bridge at Stgegia

    Lukmanierstrasse receives new bridge at Stgegia

    The Civil Engineering Office of the Canton of Graubünden is carrying out extensive roadworks on the Stgegia section of the Lukmanierstrasse. The Stgegia bridge on the Lukmanier Pass has also been renewed. The project was carried out by the construction company STRABAG from Schlieren under the direction of site manager Carina Bessel.

    For the extensive renovation of the bridge, which is located directly next to the Santa Maria arch dam at an altitude of 1900 metres, the carriageway had to be completely closed for a total of three nights, STRABAG reported in a press release on the project. The team from the Schlieren-based construction company first removed one side of the bridge and set up a temporary temporary bridge. Specialists from the three STRABAG divisions of Specialised Civil Engineering, Timber Construction and Civil Engineering worked together on the construction site.

    The location of the construction site is described in the press release as a particular challenge. In addition to confined spaces and steep slopes, high temperature fluctuations of up to 20 degrees Celsius within one shift are mentioned. However, the construction site offered “a fantastic backdrop”, writes STRABAG. In addition, the team was regularly visited by a curious herd of goats.

    “I am very proud of the team,” construction manager Carina Bessel is quoted as saying in the press release. “The colleagues have achieved remarkable things under challenging conditions and have driven the project forward with great commitment, creating a structure that will last for many years to come.”

  • Köniz tests power supply with 100 per cent renewable energy

    Köniz tests power supply with 100 per cent renewable energy

    The Bernese energy supplier BKW is testing new solutions for supplying electricity from renewable energies. According to a press release, a three-year pilot project will provide real-time data on electricity demand and consumption in the Mittelhäusern district of the municipality of Köniz.

    The choice of test area was the result of a feasibility study commissioned by the municipality of Köniz. The test focussed on supplying electricity to the 950 residents of the municipality. In the contiguous supply area, the electricity supply is to be realised using renewable energies. After the test phase, all energy customers will have the opportunity to obtain 100 per cent renewable energy, which is more environmentally friendly and cheaper than before, according to the press release.

    Mittelhäusern could become the first Swiss village to cover its entire energy requirements, i.e. electricity, heat, mobility and processes, from renewable sources, according to BKW. However, a separate follow-up project is planned for the areas of heat and mobility.

    The central aim of the study is to provide BKW Power Grid with data and experience with real-time sensor and actuator technology in a practical experiment. The aim is to ensure a stable and efficient power supply at all times. As a result, the understanding of an intelligent overall electrical system (smart grid) should be improved.

  • Zurich agglomeration needs new buildings

    Zurich agglomeration needs new buildings

    The Zurich agglomeration is the only one in Switzerland where the population is growing faster than the housing stock. This was revealed by a study conducted by the Zurich research institute Sotomo on behalf of Fürschi Züri.

    The housing stock in the Lausanne conurbation has grown by 10.0 per cent since 2016, in Geneva by 8.9 per cent and even in Winterthur by 8.5 per cent. In Zurich, the figure was only 7.8 per cent. Within the Zurich agglomeration, the labour market region of Kloten saw above-average growth of 10.9 percent, Uster-Dübendorf 8.6 percent and Limmattal 8.4 percent.

    The agglomeration is lagging behind, particularly in terms of new builds, with growth of 3.8 per cent. Only the Basel agglomeration is lower at 2.7 per cent. Lausanne has 5.5 per cent more new builds and Winterthur 5.3 per cent.

    Zurich, on the other hand, is ahead with an increase of 4.5 per cent in replacement new builds. However, Zurich is also the agglomeration in which replacement new builds create the lowest number of new flats with a factor of 2.8 and the smallest new living space with a factor of 3.4. Even Winterthur achieves a factor of 3.4 for the number of flats and 3.7 for floor space. Lausanne leads the field with a factor of 6.5 for the number of apartments and 5.9 for floor space, followed by Geneva with 6.1 for the number of apartments and 5.6 for floor space.

    There are considerable differences within the Zurich agglomeration. The labour market region of Kloten has a factor of 4.3 for the number of flats. The fewest new flats are being created in Küsnacht-Meilen with a factor of 2.2. In the city of Zurich, the factor for the number of flats is 2.3.

    Young people and families are the main direct beneficiaries of new builds. The majority of residents of new builds come from the municipality (Zurich agglomeration 41 per cent, Winterthur 50 per cent) or from the agglomeration (Zurich 39 per cent, Winterthur 11 per cent). Newcomers from abroad mainly move into existing flats; in the agglomeration, they make up 23 per cent of all newcomers to existing flats.

    Completely renovated flats are generally more expensive than new builds. Newly occupied existing flats in sought-after locations are just as expensive as new builds, and even more expensive in Geneva. New builds do not drive up the prices of neighbouring existing flats either.

    The Zurich conurbation is dependent on new construction, concludes study author Michael Hermann. “New buildings are the key to ensuring that Zurich remains an attractive place to live for everyone,” he is quoted as saying in a press release from Fürschi Züri.

    “Blocking renovations and new builds is counterproductive,” adds Raphaël Tschanz, Director of the Zurich Chamber of Commerce(ZHK). “Without new builds, young adults and families will be displaced.”

    Fürschi Züri is an initiative of the ZHK and like-minded organisations and individuals.

  • Helicopter deployment for climate-friendly energy supply

    Helicopter deployment for climate-friendly energy supply

    The Clinique Valmont in Montreux has been equipped with a climate-friendly heat supply system by BRUGG Pipes. It consists of a Siemens air heat pump, which is connected to the clinic via a district heating pipe, BRUGG Pipes explains in a press release. The heating capacity of the system is estimated at 321 kilowatts. With the new sustainable heat supply, the clinic, which is part of the Swiss Medical Network, will be able to avoid around 263 tonnes of CO2 emissions every year.

    BRUGG Pipes took an unusual approach to the delivery of the district heating pipe. “As space was limited and an incline had to be negotiated between the unloading and installation sites, we used a helicopter to transport the four sections, each weighing around 700 kilograms,” said René Hilty, Project Manager Specialist Construction Planning at the company, which is part of BRUUG GROUP AG in Brugg, in the press release. The Siemens heat pump even weighs 2.8 tonnes. It will be transported by a Super Puma helicopter on 30 September.

  • Circularity as the key to a climate-friendly building future

    Circularity as the key to a climate-friendly building future

    CircularHub, knowledge and exchange platform for circular construction, invites you to the MasterClass Circularity in the construction and real estate sector on 2 October 2025, as detailed in an announcement. The aim is to support specialists and managers in actively transforming the resource-intensive construction sector and contribute to achieving Switzerland’s net-zero targets.

    During the event, the role of circularity in sustainability and the strengths of circular design strategies and business models, best practice examples and existing Swiss approaches will be discussed. Participants will receive individual preparation by means of a briefing document and an optional follow-up telephone call with CircularHub specialists. “Solutions for a circular turnaround have long been on the table. Now it’s a matter of putting the knowledge, skills and will into practice – and that’s exactly what the MasterClass is for,” says Marloes Fischer, CEO of CircularHub and keynote speaker at the event. In addition to the technical content, the MasterClass enables active networking between specialists and managers, who can exchange ideas with experts and decision-makers and gain inspiration.

    According to CircularHub, the Swiss construction and property industry, which has high CO2 emissions and high resource consumption, is facing profound changes. The platform is therefore endeavouring to support industry players with innovative solutions and transform the construction industry towards a circular economy.

  • Nidwalden drives asking rents

    Nidwalden drives asking rents

    The monthly rental index compiled by the digital property marketplace Homegate in collaboration with Zürcher Kantonalbank closed at 131.2 points at the end of August. Compared to the previous month, the index rose by 0.2 per cent, Homegate reported in a press release. Compared to the previous year, the property marketplace’s experts have registered a 2.6 per cent increase in asking rents across Switzerland.

    The month-on-month increase across Switzerland was mainly driven by the canton of Nidwalden. Here, asking rents rose by 1.5 per cent. In a year-on-year comparison, they were around 10 per cent higher. All other cantons showed only slight movements in both directions in a monthly comparison. In a year-on-year comparison, the canton of Schwyz stands out with an increase of 8.4 per cent. Property experts only observed falling asking rents in the canton of Graubünden over the same period.

    Asking rents in the eight Swiss cities included in the index were all higher in August than in the same month last year. At 1.8 per cent, Lugano recorded the largest monthly increase. Asking rents in the city of Lucerne were 2.1 per cent lower in August than in the previous month. In a year-on-year comparison, however, asking rents in Lucerne rose the most among the eight cities surveyed.

    Homegate is a division of SMG Swiss Marketplace Group AG. This combines the digital marketplaces of TX Group, Ringier and Mobiliar.

  • Renovation of the Pérolles Bridge near Fribourg underway

    Renovation of the Pérolles Bridge near Fribourg underway

    Walo Bertschinger AG is involved in the ongoing renovation of the Pérolles Bridge between Fribourg and Marly FR. The 550 metre long and up to 70 metre high road bridge over the Saane is being repaired following damage to the road surface. Walo Bertschinger’s team is currently taking on a range of the work involved, as the fourth-generation construction company from Dietikon explains in a post on Facebook.

    Specifically, Walo is replacing the carriageway joints and renewing around 10,000 square metres of asphalt. The Walo team is also repairing damaged concrete and providing the bridge with modern waterproofing. The Pérolles Bridge will remain open to cars, buses, bicycles and pedestrians throughout the construction work.

  • Schadenmühle Ost project invites public participation

    Schadenmühle Ost project invites public participation

    A consortium of three private landowners and the city of Baden is planning to transform the Schadenmühle Ost site into a place for sustainable, dense and mixed-use living. The current use of the site, which consists of individual buildings, car parks and unused areas, does not meet today’s requirements or the current building and usage regulations, the consortium explains in a press release. The Schadenmühle Ost transformation project aims to create an urban area with around 100 flats, flexible commercial space, green areas and an underground car park.

    On 16 September, the consortium presented the project and its integration into the city’s urban development plans for Baden at an information event. This marked the start of a new phase for the flagship project, according to the press release: from 22 September to 21 October, interested parties can now submit comments and suggestions on or objections to the Schadenmühle Ost design plan. The consortium is providing detailed information on the project on an information portal.

    “We are rooted in Baden and it is important to us to make the Schadenmühle Ost site attractive for the city,” Beni Schmocker, one of the four landowners, is quoted as saying in the press release. “Involving the local population is a matter of course for the landowners.”

  • New ways to combat stock shortages

    New ways to combat stock shortages

    With a vacancy rate of around one percent for apartments, free space in the Swiss real estate market is extremely scarce. Away from the housing market, however, other problems arise with storage space. Storage spaces of less than 100 square meters in particular are often vacant because the effort involved in viewings, fixed price negotiations and physical contracts is disproportionate to the return. Neither owners nor administrators find the time-consuming letting process worthwhile, as fees and monthly rents are low and resources would be better spent on high-margin properties.

    Digital innovation for the management of small storage spaces
    Since the beginning of 2025, the Swiss start-up storabble has been using fully automated processes to solve this problem. The company offers outsourcing solutions for renting out vacant storage space and takes care of all administrative tasks. This includes tenant search, identification, verification, contract processing, key management and debt collection. Even risks such as debt collection claims or damage are outsourced, reducing the burden on owners and administrators.

    Automated processes for greater efficiency
    The business model is based on specially developed software and a digital marketplace where around 12,000 people across Switzerland can find potential rental properties every month. Full automation reduces costs and effort and also makes it possible to rent out low-value space profitably. Owners of well-known portfolios are already processing vacancies with the company.

    Economic relevance and outlook
    The rental income missed due to vacant warehouse space corresponds to around 0.02 percent of the total portfolio value on the Swiss real estate market each year. In view of a market value of CHF 6 trillion, this results in economically relevant potential for digitally efficient solutions. The outsourcing model opens up new economic benefits for very small spaces and is an example of digitalization and increased efficiency in the real estate sector. At the same time, the smart management creates relief in the sector and can serve as a blueprint for other special properties.

  • Zurich Metropolitan Area Cooperation Program 2025-2028

    Zurich Metropolitan Area Cooperation Program 2025-2028

    The cooperation programs of the Zurich Metropolitan Area Association serve the targeted development of projects with regional added value. Three programs have been successfully implemented since the association was founded in 2009. The focus is on growth, digitalization and demographic change. The current fourth call for proposals runs under the leitmotifs “Positive climate for innovation” and “Intelligent use of scarce resources” and thus picks up on the new Vision 2040/50 and the 2027 utilization strategy.

    The program is open to projects that focus on one of these topics or projects that combine both aspects. The selective, two-stage procedure ensures that the concepts submitted are practical, scalable and can be implemented in partnership with the member cantons, cities and municipalities. The submission threshold is deliberately kept low. In stage 1, a brief outline of the idea and organization is sufficient; in stage 2, the project is developed further and in more detail.

    Advantages and special features
    The program creates an innovative forum for supra-regional exchange between science, politics, business and society. The professional networking promotes sustainable solutions and strengthens the competitiveness of the metropolitan area as a leading location for research and development. Cantons, cities and municipalities benefit even if individual projects do not affect everyone equally. Diversity and innovative approaches remain the benchmark for the structural and functional area.

    Practical implementation and strategic impact
    With each program, the Zurich Metropolitan Conference provides new impetus for change in work, mobility and the use of resources. The current focus supports projects that contribute to greater innovative strength, digital transformation and sustainable development. Regional and cross-sector solutions are intended to further strengthen the Zurich metropolitan area as an attractive place to live and do business.

  • Tried and tested building materials reinterpreted

    Tried and tested building materials reinterpreted

    Sustainable building materials such as clay, wood and straw have a positive climate footprint. As they grow, they absorb CO₂ and store it in the long term. Around fifty million tons of excavated material containing clay are produced in Switzerland every year, a potential that is only used to a limited extent as most of it is landfilled. If this soil could be used as a building material, the material cycle could be closed directly. Saving resources, less transportation and lower disposal costs are the result. Wood is equally sustainable. Swiss forests provide a fast-growing, robust building material that now accounts for up to seventeen percent of load-bearing structures in new buildings, particularly in urban housing construction and additions.

    Prefabrication and hybrid construction
    The modern rediscovery of traditional materials is based on high-tech production methods. Prefabricated modules, the targeted use of robots and the addition of natural additives allow faster and more efficient processes. Nowadays, clay can be poured into formwork as liquid clay like concrete or used as rammed earth with reinforcements for multi-storey buildings. Combining clay and wood in hybrid wall or façade elements creates sustainable and climate-friendly structures. Researchers are working on optimizing materials to make clay and straw even more efficient. For example, through natural additives such as trass lime or innovative reinforcements.

    Challenges and development prospects
    The market penetration of clay and straw throughout Switzerland is still low, mainly due to a lack of industrial development, insufficient standardization and high start-up costs. Wood, on the other hand, is already widely accepted, although the forestry industry is struggling with climate change. Softwoods are coming under pressure, hardwoods are gaining in importance, but need new processing technologies. At the same time, environmental standards must be ensured and biodiversity preserved in the forests so that CO₂ storage is maintained. Research projects are investigating how wood can be made more resistant to environmental influences using biological substances such as shellac or plant-based tanning agents.

    Circular economy, health and acceptance
    Innovative building materials offer not only ecological but also health benefits. Natural materials improve the indoor climate, reduce allergy risks and avoid pollutants. Production is often low-energy and the components can be recycled at the end of their life. Web platforms such as the “Atlas of Regenerative Materials” network companies and projects in order to increase acceptance of and confidence in bio-based buildings.

    Innovation as a driver
    The combination of traditional expertise, modern research and digital prefabrication creates new opportunities for sustainable construction. Only by combining natural materials, recyclable structures and ecological responsibility can the construction industry make a positive contribution to climate protection. The opportunities for this have never been better and the building material of the future lies in the soil, in the forest and in the fields of Switzerland.

  • How the SIA is setting new standards in procurement

    How the SIA is setting new standards in procurement

    Project alliances are gaining in importance and are not only being piloted by major clients such as SBB and FEDRO, but are also on the agenda throughout the industry. The new Federal Act on Public Procurement (BöB) provides more scope for quality assessment in tenders. The purely price-driven competition is slowly fading into the background. Nevertheless, the administrative burden remains high and dumping offers are still an issue that is not yet optimally controlled.

    Market observation and contract award monitoring
    Another milestone is the expansion of market observation and contract award monitoring through cooperation with Bauenschweiz. The SIA observatories for competitions and tenders collect both quantitative and qualitative data. At municipal level in particular, the specially developed online tool “Planning procurement” facilitates the implementation of the new requirements and provides planning security.

    Potential for the entire sector
    Pilot projects and the pro-allianz.ch association highlight the industry’s desire for partnership-based and project-centred forms of organization. The SIA actively promotes the exchange of knowledge and supports new alliances with the aim of placing collaborative work and project success above traditional competitive models.

    Competition regulations updated
    The SIA 142 and SIA 143 regulations for competitions and study commissions have been extensively revised and introduced in August. Aspects such as copyright, remuneration procedures, fairness and transparency are now given greater weight. The revision was developed together with public clients and increases acceptance on both sides.

    Focus on sustainability criteria and remuneration
    In addition to ecological aspects, items such as economic, macroeconomic, social and cultural sustainability are given greater weight in the procurement processes. The content, definition and implementation of sustainability is being continuously developed in working groups and with event formats such as “post-fossil competitions”. Another priority topic is the appropriate remuneration of planning services. Digital platforms and new fee regulations are intended to strengthen fairness and transparency so that planning offices are remunerated in line with the market and in a transparent manner in future.

  • Federal Council simplifies construction procedures

    Federal Council simplifies construction procedures

    To date, many construction projects and urban developments have been delayed due to the rigid direct application of the Federal Inventory of Sites worthy of Protection (ISOS). In Zurich in particular, thousands of apartments are blocked, as the example of Brunaupark shows. The Federal Council wants to simplify and speed up the processing and approval of residential projects with a new regulation. In future, the ISOS requirements will only apply directly in cases where the townscape is actually affected. This will significantly reduce the number of complex procedures and numerous projects can be realized more quickly.

    In future, cantons and municipalities will be given more leeway and clear boundaries as to when direct application of ISOS is really necessary. The conservation objectives of the inventory will be formulated more openly, which will enable inward settlement development while still protecting building culture.

    Solar installations are easier to approve
    The new measures also make it easier to install solar installations on new buildings. In future, an ISOS review will only be required for existing buildings. The federal government is thus taking account of the requirements of the energy transition and strengthening planning and legal certainty for future-oriented construction projects.

    Consensus at the round table
    The reform was developed at a broad-based round table with representatives from the federal government, cantons, cities, municipalities, business and civil society. The regulatory adjustments are to be made by fall 2026. At the same time, the processes for applying the ISOS inventory will be improved so that conflicts can be identified and resolved at an early stage.

    Prominent critics and supporters from politics and heritage protection welcome the new regulations. It is a sensible compromise between protection and development. Direct application remains possible for important monuments, but will no longer prevent important innovation projects in future.

    New momentum for residential construction
    The new rules give cantons and municipalities the necessary flexibility to combine resource protection and building culture. Residential construction projects such as Brunaupark could be approved and realized much more quickly in future. The Federal Office of Culture, Department of the Environment and Department of Economic Affairs have been tasked with implementing the new principles in order to address the increased demand for housing and the challenges of the energy transition in a holistic manner.

  • Adding storeys and extensions made easy

    Adding storeys and extensions made easy

    The further development of existing buildings offers clear advantages. It saves resources, reduces CO2 emissions and reduces the volume of construction waste. In contrast to demolition, the appearance of the neighborhood is preserved and new rentals are often lower, which ensures affordable living space. The local building culture also benefits, as established structures and identity-forming elements are preserved, which strengthens the sense of community.

    High hurdles hamper conversions
    Outdated regulations, complex procedures and a lack of legal certainty are currently hampering numerous extension projects. Older buildings in particular do not comply with the latest regulations, so many owners shy away from the effort involved and prefer to build new ones.

    Revision of the law brings simplifications
    The new proposal from the Building Department provides for targeted simplifications. At its heart is the simplification provision, Section 220a E-PBG: it allows owners to deviate from certain regulations, for example with regard to boundary distances, façade height and the number of full storeys. The aim is to better integrate the further developed building into the existing building regulations, create more scope for conversion and at the same time offer legal certainty.

    Densification and better utilization
    It will be easier to create additional residential units, particularly in residential buildings. The regulation encourages properties to exploit their full potential in accordance with the municipal zoning regulations without losing the existing building stock. This is an important step towards more densification and smart land use in urban and rural areas.

    Further simplifications and updates
    The revision also addresses the demands of the Cantonal Council. For example, procedures for solar installations and stair lifts have been simplified. Outdated regulations on fire protection and minimum heights are to be removed. This will make it easier to convert office buildings into apartments and provide impetus for innovative construction projects.

    Opportunity for Zurich
    The planned simplifications for the conversion and extension of existing buildings will enable sustainable urban development, ecologically, socially and culturally. The revision of the law creates clarity and motivates owners to use the potential of existing buildings instead of building new ones.

  • PFAS in construction waste

    PFAS in construction waste

    Around 7.4 million tons of mineral construction waste are produced in Switzerland every year, with demolition, refurbishment and new construction continuing to increase the quantities. It is not only asbestos and PCBs that are problematic, but also PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances). These chemicals are considered carcinogenic and accumulate in the human body.

    A study by the University of Bern found up to seven PFAS substances in 20 samples of demolition material, some in concentrations of up to 5 micrograms per kilogram. Although the quantities are considered low, the research team recommends further investigations. Landfills are usually not sealed, PFAS can be washed out and thus enter the groundwater, where they pollute the food chain and drinking water.

    Measurements and new standards
    The Swiss Building Materials Association Circular Switzerland and the Federal Office for the Environment are working together with cantons and independent laboratories to determine PFAS contamination in gravel works, concrete plants and existing buildings. The investigation is nearing completion. The findings are to be incorporated into a practical guide for dealing with PFAS. The federal government is planning limit values for PFAS in contaminated sites and waste by 2026, which construction companies will have to comply with in future.

    In civil engineering, the Federal Roads Office has recommended avoiding PFAS-containing substances for the time being. Due to the lack of legislation, Astra is not yet able to enforce any bans, but is working on checklists for PFAS-free construction products.

    Health risk and circular economy
    The Federal Office of Public Health is monitoring the PFAS problem in indoor spaces and warns of its persistence. PFAS bind to materials for a long time and become problematic when abraded and inhaled, but have so far been less relevant in the living environment, as the main source remains food. According to the authorities, the risk of exposure from building rubble and landfill sites is greater. This is because rainwater washes PFAS into the groundwater and thus into the food chain. Although leachate is technically purified, the risk of uncontrolled contamination remains.

    The Building Materials Association emphasizes that the recyclability of demolition material is endangered by the new limit values. At the same time, the industry wants to keep the chemicals out of the cycle. Professional removal and disposal are possible, but it is calling for clear and practicable guidelines from the federal government.

    PFAS in Swiss soil
    A recent Swiss study shows that PFAS can now be detected in all topsoils, even in remote forest and mountain areas. Point sources such as fire extinguishing training grounds and electroplating plants increase local pollution. Agricultural soils in particular contain high PFAS levels, often caused by sewage sludge used as fertilizer. The large number of applications makes it difficult to trace the origin.

    Political debate on PFAS
    Following the detection of PFAS in meat from the canton of St. Gallen and the first bans, parliament has also taken up the issue. The authorities and the industry are working together on a mix of measures to protect the population and the environment. Environment Minister Albert Rösti confirms the seriousness of the situation. The government wants to respond with limit values, guidelines and tighter controls.

  • Farewell to imputed rental value

    Farewell to imputed rental value

    The adoption of the bill on the cantonal property tax for second homes marks the end of the imputed rental value. However, the change will take effect in two to three years at the earliest and will fundamentally change the everyday lives of many of those affected. Not only owners of owner-occupied and rented properties will feel the effects, but also households with debts without property ownership.

    Simplifications and exemptions
    With the abolition of the imputed rental value, maintenance costs and debt interest will also no longer be tax-deductible. However, to make it easier to purchase residential property, special rules apply for the first ten years after purchase. Debt interest of up to CHF 10,000 for married couples and CHF 5,000 for single persons is still deductible, but the remaining maximum amount is reduced by ten percent per year.

    Tax declarations will be simpler and the tax burden for many homeowners will fall in the current interest rate environment. Value-preserving and value-enhancing costs should be properly documented, as in future they can only be claimed when property gains tax is paid, i.e. when the property is sold.

    More restrictions on the deduction of debt interest
    Owners of investment properties are particularly affected by the reform. Interest on debt can now only be deducted in proportion to the value of the property in relation to total assets. This increases the tax burden and significantly limits the previous advantages.

    Taxpayers without real estate
    Households without real estate are also affected. Private debt interest, for example for loans or small loans, may no longer be offset against tax in future. This turns previous practice on its head and may lead to higher tax payments.

    Uncertainties and cantonal competence
    The cantons will have the option of levying a special property tax on second homes. This is a particularly sensitive issue for regions with a high level of tourism, as new taxes can affect the attractiveness of the market. It remains to be seen what the specific assessment bases will look like and which cantons will make use of the new options.

    The cantons can continue to allow temporary deductions for energy-efficient renovations and environmental protection measures until 2050. It is not yet known which cantons will offer this.

    Strategies for mortgages and investments
    The reform not only affects the tax rate, but also personal financial strategies. The question of how high mortgages should be set in future and whether amortization makes sense is becoming increasingly important. Anyone who uses capital for amortization ties it up in the property and loses liquidity for other purposes such as retirement provision or new investments. The decision on the optimal financing therefore requires individual consideration.

    Effects on the real estate market
    Whether the reform affects prices depends above all on the situation of new buyers, the majority of whom are highly mortgaged. According to SNB statistics, 40 percent of newly purchased homes are financed at over 74 percent of their value. Older properties in particular continue to lose tax advantages due to the limited deduction options. New condominiums in the canton of Zurich are on average 20 years old, single-family homes even around 50 years old. The fundamental challenges of high prices and scarce funds for acquisition remain unresolved by the reform.

    The abolition of the imputed rental value promotes the price difference between new buildings and older properties. Second homes are likely to become less attractive as a result of the new property tax, but experts do not expect prices for vacation homes to fall, as the supply shortage is too great.

    Prices for Swiss homes could rise by 4% this year and 4% next year, and by as much as 4.5% in the canton of Zurich. Renovating and maintaining the value of old buildings is becoming more important than ever, but not every investment pays off. Homeowners need to keep a keen eye on their long-term strategy: Is refurbishment worthwhile or is a new replacement building imminent?

    Reform as a joint project
    The changes are based on a close link between legislative and constitutional amendments. The abolition of the imputed rental value will only come into force if the referendum on the new property tax on second homes is successful. Parliament discussed the scope and form of the tax intensively for months. In tourist cantons in particular, there is a great deal of skepticism as to whether reduced revenue can be offset by new taxes. The laws come into force together, a reform with many facets.

    Tax and financial effects at a glance
    The mortgage interest rate determines whether owners benefit. If interest rates are low, the tax burden falls for the majority. If interest rates are high, taxes increase because interest on debt can hardly be deducted any more. For the public sector, the reform could result in a loss of revenue of CHF 1.8 billion. From 3 percent mortgage interest, however, additional revenue is possible for the state as a whole. The actual effects remain unclear for the time being due to various uncertainties.

  • Wood takes centre stage: 1500 guests at event in Worb

    Wood takes centre stage: 1500 guests at event in Worb

    OLWO, which claims to be the central production and trading service provider in the Swiss timber industry, welcomed around 1,500 guests to its sawmill in Worb on 12 and 13 September 2025. The company transformed the area with marquee and wrestling ground into a meeting place for families, experts and people interested in wood, according to a press release. Young wrestlers among those interested in wood were also delighted to receive a surprise visit from former wrestling king Christian Stucki.

    The Days of Swiss Wood 2025, during which the event took place, were organised by the umbrella organisation Lignum Holzwirtschaft Schweiz and its affiliated companies from the forestry and wood industry. The aim of the events was to promote Swiss wood and a sustainable construction industry that focusses on regional resources and sustainable value creation.

    OLWO, a fourth-generation family business, has a proprietary sawmill and planing mill and a comprehensive range of wood-based materials for craftsmen, architects and builders. At the company headquarters in Worb, customers are offered solution-orientated sales advice from around 30 wood specialists in addition to regional woods and materials.

  • Zurich invests in large-scale battery storage for greater security of supply

    Zurich invests in large-scale battery storage for greater security of supply

    Zurich City Council has applied to the municipal council for a framework credit of CHF 20 million. According to a press release, the credit is to be used for the expansion of free-standing large-scale battery storage facilities operated by Elektrizitätswerk der Stadt Zürich(ewz).

    The independently operated systems are used to store large amounts of energy, such as that generated by renewable sources like solar or wind energy. In addition to the existing power plants, the large-scale storage facilities can feed energy into the grid at peak times and thus contribute to the stability of the energy system and security of supply. An important contribution can be made here, particularly in view of the requirements of increasing electrification, such as the switch to electric vehicles and heat pumps.

    According to the press release, the city council can approve ewz projects independently within this framework credit and thus significantly shorten decision-making processes. For ewz, this means that even larger projects in highly competitive business areas can be handled swiftly and remain competitive.

  • Mobile research factory optimises concrete construction for Hyperloop test facility

    Mobile research factory optimises concrete construction for Hyperloop test facility

    The EuroTube Foundation celebrated the opening of its innovative research facility for sustainable infrastructure on the grounds of the Innovation Park Zurich(IPZ) on 16 September, the foundation announced in a press release. The Smart Mobile Factory produces concrete components for the DemoTube hyperloop test facility being built at the IPZ. The innovative factory was developed by the EuroTube Foundation in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Delft University of Technology, Eindhoven University of Technology and the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano.

    The new factory deserves to be called intelligent, as its construction control is linked to a digital twin via sensor data, writes EuroTube. In this way, material flows, processes and CO2 emissions can be continuously optimised during construction. The factory, which is set up in a few standard containers, can also be moved and flexibly set up along infrastructure projects.

    At the IPZ, the Smart Mobile Factory will not only produce components for DemoTube, but will also be available to other researchers and start-ups who want to develop and test their own technologies directly on an active construction site. To this end, the EuroTube Foundation has launched the Real Laboratory for Infrastructure Construction educational programme. “As a research partner of the Innovation Park Zurich, we are proud to support projects, start-ups and companies in the development of new products for the transition to sustainable mobility infrastructures,” said Antoine Juge, Managing Director of the EuroTube Foundation, in the press release.

  • Digital solution makes progress on greenhouse gases visible

    Digital solution makes progress on greenhouse gases visible

    The Zurich-based company Integrale Planung GmbH(Intep) has launched a new emissions tracker designed to make it much easier for SMEs to get started with carbon footprinting, according to a press release. The web-based tool also visualises the results and enables a multi-year comparison. The aim is to make progress clearly visible and measurable.

    The Emission Tracker is based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and covers all three scopes, including indirect emissions along the value chain. The emission factors have been scientifically validated and are updated regularly. Activity and emissions data that Intep was able to collect during its project work also enables a simplified calculation methodology using industry averages.

    The visualised results provide an overview of the main sources of emissions, from energy supply to expenditure and investment. A PDF report can be used for communication and also offers practical tips for reducing emissions. With the Emission Tracker Plus, companies can also receive an additional two hours of personalised advice from Intep experts.

    “SMEs in particular often lack the financial resources, the right tools and the necessary expertise,” explains Dr Lisa Winter, Managing Director at Intep Berlin. “With the Emission Tracker, we provide them with a low-threshold introduction to greenhouse gas balancing.” Associations, municipalities and large companies can also benefit by acquiring licences for their SME network as part of the Emission Tracker partnership.

  • Autonomous shuttle buses reach new test phase at the airport

    Autonomous shuttle buses reach new test phase at the airport

    The pilot project for autonomous shuttle buses at Zurich Airport has entered a new phase. According to a press release, the project has reached automation level 3. This means that airport employees can use the buses for their commute between the airport head (Gate 101) and the maintenance depot (Gate 130). There are security drivers on board the buses who can intervene in the event of a problem. So far, the buses have travelled without passengers in an initial test phase.

    The current success is due to the co-operation between several airport departments and the technology partner WeRide. Preparations included setting up a new IT infrastructure, hundreds of test drives and a large number of technical checks. In addition to training, regulatory requirements and technical processes were also optimised.

    In a further phase, journeys are carried out without a safety driver using a remote cockpit. If these journeys without passengers are successful, the buses could then also drive autonomously without a driver. “We assume that we will be able to carry out the first tests with remote monitoring and without a safety driver by the end of the year at the earliest,” says Raphaël Glaesener, Senior Innovation Manager at Flughafen Zürich AG, in the press release. If successful, Zurich Airport would be the first in Europe with autonomous driving on its premises.

  • Lighter and stronger: new generation of network arch bridges

    Lighter and stronger: new generation of network arch bridges

    A new border bridge has been spanning the Oder near Küstrin since last year. It is held in place by a network arch with a span of 130 metres and 88 carbon girders. According to a recently published Empa press release, these carbon tensioning cables were developed by Carbo-Link, an Empa spin-off from Fehraltorf. The carbon carriers are made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP).

    This innovative material not only enables flexible processing, but also saves a large amount of carbon dioxide that would be released by conventional steel constructions. The use of carbon fibre beams significantly reduces the dead weight compared to conventional flat steel hangers. Around 500 tonnes of steel and 1350 tonnes of reinforced concrete were saved in the construction.

    A major advantage of the new suspension cables is their high tensile strength and lower fatigue than steel. Most of the fatigue tests were carried out by a team from Empa’s Structural Engineering department and confirmed the necessary fatigue strength of the new CFRP material. “We have thus created the basis for a new generation of filigree network arch bridges with carbon hangers as load-bearing elements,” Giovanni Terrasi, Head of Empa’s Mechanical Systems Engineering department, is quoted as saying in the press release.

    Visually, the new materials offer design freedom, as the Oder bridge shows. Carbon girders have already been used in other bridge constructions, but the special feature of the Oder bridge is that it is being used for the first time for heavy goods railway transport. Trains can pass over it at a speed of 120 kilometres per hour. The bridge has been honoured with both the German Bridge Construction Award and the British Bridges International Award.

  • Dwindling interest in electric cars in Switzerland

    Dwindling interest in electric cars in Switzerland

    Based on the results of the third AXA Mobility Survey,AXA Switzerland warns that dwindling interest in electric cars could jeopardise the mobility turnaround. According to a statement from the insurance company headquartered in Winterthur, the figures generally give reason to speak of a trend reversal for the automotive market: Between 2023 and 2025, the proportion of those planning to buy a car rose by 12 per cent to 34 per cent. At the same time, only 24 per cent are considering an electric car; in 2023, this was an option for 34 per cent. The underlying representative survey was conducted in May 2025 in cooperation with the Sotomo research institute in Zurich.

    According to the study, electric mobility is currently rejected by 30 per cent of respondents, compared to 25 per cent in 2023. The growing reservations relate to range, price and charging options. According to the press release, the used car market for e-cars continues to lag behind that for combustion engines. The reasons for this are concerns about the condition of the battery and the rapid pace of technological development. At the same time, the reputation of electric cars has fallen by 9 per cent in the past year. “Despite these obvious difficulties in getting electric cars accepted, only a minority of 38 per cent are still in favour of greater political support for the drive technology,” Sotomo Director Michael Hermann is quoted as saying.

    Regardless of the drive technology, AXA is observing that German makes are the undisputed leaders in the wake of the upturn in the automotive market; Chinese makes, particularly BYD, are catching up. Electric cars from the USA are losing popularity.

    The survey also asked what the population thinks of autonomous driving: Scepticism prevails here, mainly due to safety concerns and possible cyber attacks. The majority of car owners are concerned about the misuse of their vehicle data, according to the survey.

  • First fast-charging station for electric cars opened in Adelboden

    First fast-charging station for electric cars opened in Adelboden

    Adelboden now has its first direct current fast-charging station for electric cars. According to a press release, the station at Licht- und Wasserwerk Adelboden AG(LWA) at Dorfstrasse 36 has a capacity of 50 to 100 kilowatts. This means that electric cars can be charged within 30 to 60 minutes. LWA now offers a total of 20 public charging points at six locations in Adelboden.

    LWA sees the fast charging station as a milestone for sustainable mobility in Adelboden. “Every charging break is an invitation to explore Adelboden’s village centre,” says Pascal von Allmen, Managing Director of LWA, in the press release. This benefits not only car drivers, but also local businesses.

  • Investment in modern workplaces and training

    Investment in modern workplaces and training

    The Ferrum Group has inaugurated its new ferruBase extension at its Schafisheim site, according to a press release. With the new building, the mechanical engineering company has realised a vertical production structure that creates space for 240 new office workstations, fully equipped production rooms and a future-oriented training workshop on around 14,000 square metres of floor space. More than 1,000 guests attended the opening and were able to gain an insight into the new building during expert tours.

    According to the press release, the new building seamlessly combines modern production processes with ergonomic office design and a training workshop. During the guided tours, employees, family members and guests were able to gain an initial insight into the architecture, construction method and new machinery. Catering was also provided at the opening ceremony and a varied entertainment programme was offered.

    For Ferrum, the new building is an investment in the future viability of the company and is intended to secure jobs in Aargau in the long term. At the same time, it also demonstrates how tradition and modern technology can be successfully combined.

  • Architecture prize honours outstanding building projects in the canton of Zurich

    Architecture prize honours outstanding building projects in the canton of Zurich

    The Foundation for the Honouring of Good Buildings in the Canton of Zurich has awarded the Canton of Zurich Architecture Prize, which is presented every three years, for the eighth time. The jury honoured four projects in each of the categories of distinction and recognition for their design quality and innovative approach to current challenges, as detailed in a press release. The foundation is supported by the Canton of Zurich’s Building Department, the Zurich section of the Association of Swiss Architects, the Swiss Werkbund and Zürcher Kantonalbank.

    The Leutschenbach high-rise ensemble in Zurich and the complete refurbishment of the Im Birkenhof housing estate were recognised in the award category, as were the temporary sports buildings in the canton of Zurich and the Wallrüti school building in Winterthur.

    The ensemble of three residential buildings in Kleinandelfingen, the new extension to the Limmattal cantonal school in Urdorf, the communal living project in Roter Kamm in Zurich and the Hobelwerk, House D in Winterthur were recognised. The Swiss Life Arena in Zurich received the Audience Award. This was awarded in an online vote that ran from mid-April to the end of May.

    The foundation also honoured the Hobelwerk, Haus D in Winterthur with the sustainability award Der Grüne Leu. This honours architects who have dedicated themselves to ecological sustainability and developed their own aesthetic and architectural language.

    “Good architecture ensures well-being, efficiency and value retention. It takes sustainability into account in many dimensions. For example, in achieving the social objective of inward densification of our residential areas while at the same time creating valuable recreational spaces,” Heinz Stecher, Key Account Manager Construction/Real Estate at Zürcher Kantonalbank and member of the Foundation Board, is quoted as saying in the press release.