immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: Innovation

  • Circle at Zurich Airport has four new tenants

    Circle at Zurich Airport has four new tenants

    Four new tenants have joined the ground floor of the Circle business and service centre at Zurich Airport. From mid-2025, the newly founded Novu Campus AG will offer coworking space for up-and-coming national and international companies on an area of almost 4,000 square metres. According to a press release from Flughafen Zürich AG, it also includes state-of-the-art infrastructure for meeting and workshop formats.

    The airport itself recently moved into the Circle with its new ZRH Innovation Hub department, which was set up last autumn. It will also collaborate with universities and industry partners for the purpose of innovation for passengers and airport partners. It is headed by Coralie Klaus Boecker, who was previously Head of Marketing & Digital at the company.

    SAP has been based in the Circle since 2021. Europe’s largest provider of business software intends to establish Switzerland’s first SAP Experience Centre there. The company wants to bring its innovative strength to life for customers and partners.

    From summer 2025, Lucerne-based confectioner Bachmann will open a specialist shop with an integrated bakery and chocolaterie on the main Circle square. In the summer months, there will also be a gelateria and seating on the terrace.

    “We are very pleased about the four new tenants on the alley level, who are an excellent fit for the Circle,” Circle boss Stefan Feldmann is quoted as saying. A total of 50 companies with more than 5,000 employees are now based in the Circle. 90 per cent of the space has been let.

  • Redesign of the Schlössli Collab Lucerne

    Redesign of the Schlössli Collab Lucerne

    On 17 April, Axon Active Holding AG began the expansion and renovation of its headquarters in Schlössli Schönegg, high above Lucerne. Following the renovation, the Schlössli will operate under the name Schlössli Collab Luzern, according to an article in the “Luzerner Zeitung” on the ground-breaking ceremony. Axon co-founder and owner Stefan Muff is quoted as saying that the Axon Group wants to drive forward the digital transformation from here. To this end, Schlössli Collab Lucerne wants to offer innovators a home.

    At the ground-breaking ceremony, Lucerne’s Director of Construction and Economic Affairs Fabian Peter (FDP) praised the commitment of the internationally active group of software companies to Lucerne as a location. According to the report, Axon Active will invest around CHF 15 million in the expansion and conversion of its headquarters. The work should be completed by autumn 2026. The group’s approximately 40 employees in the Schlössli are currently housed in a building belonging to the energy supplier EWL on Sternmattstrasse in Lucerne.

  • Opening of the Innovaare innovation park

    Opening of the Innovaare innovation park

    The Innovaare Park, the largest innovation hub of its kind, was officially opened on 25 April 2024. Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin and other prominent figures from politics, business and research, including Dieter Egli, Vice President of the Aargau cantonal government, and PSI Director Prof Dr Christian Rüegg, attended the ceremony. The park, which is already 80 per cent let, serves as a strategic hub and is the largest tenant of the neighbouring Paul Scherrer Institute.

    Dr Christian Brönnimann, CEO of Park Innovaare, emphasised the importance of this facility: “The official opening of Park Innovaare is the result of a collaborative effort by many stakeholders, including shareholders, the canton, the federal government, investors and PSI. This collaboration has created a pioneering meeting place for industry and cutting-edge research.”

    Thanks to its direct neighbourhood to the PSI and the use of its research infrastructure, the Innovaare Park offers ideal conditions for technology transfer from science to industry. It focuses on key technologies in the fields of photonics and quantum technologies, life sciences, advanced manufacturing technologies, energy and sustainability.

    Andreas Rickenbacher, President of Switzerland Innovation, explains the overarching vision: “Switzerland is recognised worldwide for its innovative strength. Park Innovaare plays a central role in optimally networking our academic institutions with the economy and thus translating research results into marketable products and services.”

    Park Innovaare has already met with a high level of acceptance: “We have attracted 21 companies so far, including 15 spin-offs from PSI, ETH or FHNW, two technology transfer centres and several large international companies”, says Robert Rudolph, CEO of Park Innovaare. With a current occupancy rate of around 80 per cent, the park is already showing its best side shortly after opening and is optimistic about the future.

  • The heart of Switzerland pulsating with diversity and innovation

    The heart of Switzerland pulsating with diversity and innovation

    Zurich’s geographical and demographic structure contributes to its unique character. With its division into 12 districts and 34 neighbourhoods, nestled between the banks of the Limmat and the Uetliberg, Zurich offers a picturesque backdrop for its 428,700 inhabitants and 1.4 million people in the entire agglomeration. A remarkable 32% of the population, which comes from 172 nations, reflects the city’s international presence and openness.

    Zurich’s economic landscape is characterised by diversity and strength. The financial sector, which represents a quarter of local economic output, and the booming creative industries with 39,000 jobs emphasise Zurich’s role as an economic powerhouse. With a high tourism rate, underpinned by 3.4 million annual overnight stays and a major air and rail transport hub, Zurich is also a key centre of attraction for international visitors. In addition, a diverse cultural scene, with world-class museums and a historically valuable old town, enriches urban life. Festivals, art and music events as well as the natural recreational areas on Lake Zurich and the Uetliberg offer residents and visitors a high quality of life.

    Zurich thus not only stands for a successful combination of cultural diversity and economic dynamism, but also for a progressive attitude towards the future. This city shows how modern urbanity can be designed in harmony with historical heritage and natural beauty, and sets itself as a leading example of innovation and quality of life in a global context.

    Foundations for a vibrant city
    Zurich Urban Development is a division of the Department of the President of the City of Zurich and reports directly to the Mayor. It comprises five areas and its remit is to provide the foundations and strategies for socio-spatial urban development. The team deals with a variety of topics and is committed to an integrated and user-orientated understanding of urban development and planning. This includes, for example, preparing studies and expert reports, conducting impulse projects and representing socio-spatial aspects in projects led by third parties. Urban development also takes on coordination and special tasks. An important focus of the work is the involvement of the population. Participatory processes and workshops are organised in order to incorporate citizens’ ideas and concerns into urban development. In this way, the City of Zurich creates broad acceptance for a number of projects and strengthens the sense of togetherness in urban society. In addition, an intensive exchange with other municipal offices and external partners is maintained in order to ensure holistic and sustainable urban development. The aim is to further develop Zurich as a vibrant, diverse and liveable city.

    Strengthening the location for tomorrow
    Economic development promotes dialogue between politics, administration and business and advocates good framework conditions. It supports young entrepreneurs and projects that strengthen the future viability of the location and make it visible both nationally and internationally. The Economic Development Agency attaches great importance to sustainable urban development. It is committed to ensuring that the business community is given greater consideration and involvement in order to achieve the City of Zurich’s sustainability goals. The targeted promotion of education and innovation is an important building block for strengthening the location for tomorrow. The Economic Development Agency is committed to ensuring that educational programmes are closely linked to the needs of the economy in order to secure qualified specialists for the future. It also supports innovation projects and technology transfer in order to drive the regional economy forward and create new jobs. Through this holistic approach, economic development contributes to strengthening the location in the long term and making it fit for the future.

    Key to promoting growth
    Innovation and digitalisation in companies are actively promoted by economic development. Targeted funding programmes and consulting services support companies in using future-oriented technologies and strengthening their competitiveness. The Economic Development Agency is also committed to the creation of qualified jobs and the training of skilled labour. It works closely with educational institutions and companies to ensure that young talent is trained in a customised way and to combat the shortage of skilled workers in the long term.

    Impetus for the future
    An important aspect of business development is the promotion of start-ups and innovative business ideas. By providing targeted support and advice, young entrepreneurs are encouraged to realise their ideas and lead them to commercial success. The Economic Development Agency regularly organises events and networking meetings to promote the exchange between established companies and start-ups and to create synergies. In this way, Zurich can be further strengthened as an innovative and attractive location for start-ups.

  • Glarner Kantonalbank seeks projects for sustainability award

    Glarner Kantonalbank seeks projects for sustainability award

    The Glarner Kantonalbank(GLKB) awards the Glarus Sustainability Prize once a year. With this award, GLKB aims to promote projects and initiatives by Glarus residents that contribute to sustainable development in the canton. The prize is endowed with CHF 10,000. According to GLKB, applications for the third edition of the prize can be submitted from now until 30 June.

    Projects that deal with at least one of the three pillars of environment, society and economy can be submitted. The environment includes the reduction of greenhouse gases and renewable energies, energy efficiency, conservation of resources, reduction of harmful substances or biodiversity. In the area of society, the projects should deal with fairness and justice, social commitment or the promotion of Glarus culture. For economic development, ideas are sought that contribute to the creation of local jobs or include sustainable business models with development potential and innovative technologies.

    Private individuals and legal entities such as associations can take part. Research projects and applications for scientific work are also eligible, provided they “have a clear sustainability impact on the canton of Glarus” or, in the case of supra-regional impact, the designated prize winners have a direct connection to the canton of Glarus, according to the press release.

    Last year, the Obstalden heating network won the prize. The heating network is fuelled solely by local and renewable energies and secures jobs. The project was selected from a total of 21 entries.

  • Schréder acquires 49 per cent of Photinus

    Schréder acquires 49 per cent of Photinus

    Schréder from Brussels acquires a 49 per cent stake in Photinus from Dornbirn. The two companies, both active in the solar lighting market, want to join forces in order to establish sustainable lighting solutions in outdoor areas more strongly worldwide. Phontinus has already gained extensive experience in this area with energy self-sufficient solar lighting for customers in a number of European countries and the Middle East.

    “At Schréder, we firmly believe that solar lighting solutions can help cities and municipalities improve their carbon footprint,” Schréder CEO Werner De Wolf is quoted as saying in a joint press release issued by the two companies. For Photinus CEO Martin Kessler, the merger with Schréder represents “a unique opportunity to expand our international sales network and achieve our goal of becoming the world’s leading provider of solar lighting solutions”. Together, the partner companies want to offer a comprehensive portfolio that can fulfil different requirements in terms of size and performance.

    “Photinus is pursuing a very interesting strategy in the development of solar lighting products in terms of innovation, modularity and flexibility,” explains Philippe Felten, Chief Commercial Officer of Schréder. Specifically, the Austrian company is focussing closely on customers, with customised solutions taking centre stage. “Photinus’ sales strategy harmonises perfectly with Schréder’s sales culture,” says Felten.

  • Wood City – a milestone for the cities of the future with wood

    Wood City – a milestone for the cities of the future with wood

    The renaissance of timber construction as a symbol of ecological building
    The decision to use wood as the primary building material is at the centre of Stockholm Wood City. This step reflects the growing awareness of environmentally friendly construction methods and emphasises the many advantages of timber constructions. In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of the urban space, timber buildings help to improve air quality, promote well-being, increase labour productivity and act as a natural carbon sink.

    “Stockholm Wood City is a manifesto of our vision for the future,” explains Annica Ånäs, CEO of Atrium Ljungberg. “The project not only marks a significant step forward for our company, but also sets a historic milestone for Sweden’s innovative strength.”

    Innovation and sustainability as guiding principles
    Stockholm Wood City goes beyond the mere use of wood as a building material and takes a holistic approach to sustainability. The project integrates advanced technologies to increase energy efficiency and promotes the careful use of resources through the self-production and shared use of energy as well as the use of resource-efficient construction techniques.

    As a flagship project for future-orientated urban development, Stockholm Wood City will not only enrich the cityscape of Stockholm, but will also provide significant impetus for the construction industry worldwide. With its fusion of innovation, sustainability and community spirit, it offers an inspiring blueprint for the design of future urban living spaces.

  • Life sciences and ICT will continue to dominate relocations in 2023

    Life sciences and ICT will continue to dominate relocations in 2023

    The location promotion programme of the federal government, regions and cantons can record the relocation of a total of 206 companies to Switzerland in 2023, the Conference of Cantonal Directors of Economic Affairs(VDK) announced in a press release. Once a year, it compiles statistics on the number of foreign companies relocating to Switzerland. As in previous years, companies from the life sciences and ICT sectors dominated the new settlements in the reporting year. Four out of ten new relocations came from the USA, Germany or France.

    The 206 companies that relocated last year helped to strengthen cantonal and regional value creation. They have already created 640 jobs throughout Switzerland in their first year of operation. Over the next three years, the number of new jobs is expected to rise to a total of over 2500.

    The national location promotion, which is a joint task of the federal government and the cantons, has commissioned the official Swiss organisation for export promotion and location promotion Switzerland Global Enterprise(S-GE) with the national promotion activities. The service agreement for 2024 to 2027 between the Confederation, the cantons and S-GE reinforces the focus on innovative and sustainable industries and technologies. Quality takes precedence over quantity. For example, the companies located here “should also contribute to strengthening the entire regional and local value creation as well as the SME landscape with their innovative expertise in their network”, according to the press release.

  • 4B invests 35 million Swiss francs in Hochdorf

    4B invests 35 million Swiss francs in Hochdorf

    4B is investing around 35 million Swiss francs in a new machining centre and four new halls at its headquarters in Hochdorf. The Lucerne-based window and façade manufacturer also plans to install photovoltaic systems on both the old and new halls. “With this investment, we are laying the foundations for a new era and another 125 successful years in Hochdorf and Switzerland,” said 4B CEO Jean-Marc Devaud in a press release issued by the company.

    Construction work on the four new halls began on 27 March with the ground-breaking ceremony. It should be completed by the beginning of 2025. The first photovoltaic systems will be installed on the existing halls this year. Once the installation work on the new halls has also been completed, 4B in Hochdorf aims to produce around 3 gigawatt hours of electricity from solar energy every year. This is enough to cover the company’s entire electricity consumption in Hochdorf. In addition, 4B utilises the wood waste from production to generate heat in its own combined heat and power plant.

    “With the four new halls and the new machining facility, we are creating the basis for the long-term optimisation of our production processes,” explains Devaud. 4B is also planning to bring production processes that are currently outsourced back to Hochdorf. “We are also creating the flexibility to be equipped for the future,” says the company boss.

  • Innovation Park Zurich gets its first new buildings

    Innovation Park Zurich gets its first new buildings

    The first development phase of the Zurich Innovation Park on the airfield site in Dübendorf is taking shape, the operator announced in a press release. Construction work on a total of seven new buildings on the apron of the site is set to begin this year. The projects were selected from a total of 28 proposals submitted last year in a global architectural competition.

    The projects now selected were developed by the architectural firms E2A, Roger Boltshauser, Mulder Zonderland and TEN from Zurich as well as Muoto from Paris and 3XN from Copenhagen. According to the current planning status, around 24 per cent of the total floor space is to be divided into office space, 8 per cent into laboratory space and 12 per cent into production space, for example for the manufacture of prototypes. A further 36 per cent is planned as flexible space for various uses. In addition, areas for utilities, services and research-related living are to be created. Catering, leisure and shopping facilities are also planned.

    With its own development, the Innovation Park Zurich aims to set an example for innovative urban development and sustainability. “Accordingly, special building typologies are being developed that can be used sustainably over long periods of time thanks to their flexibility and modularity and have a significantly reduced ecological footprint through the use of new technologies,” the press release states. Plans include the installation of an anergy grid and large solar panels on roofs and façades.

  • Bühler’s Grain Technology Centre nears completion

    Bühler’s Grain Technology Centre nears completion

    The Bühler Group ‘s new Grain Innovation Centre(GIC) at its headquarters in Uzwil is almost complete. The technology company based in the St.GallenBodenseeArea has announced that the building project has reached the final construction phase. Just over 18 months after the start of construction work, the installation of all machines and systems has begun. For Bühler AG, the modernisation represents a “milestone on the road to innovation in grain processing”, according to the statement.

    According to the press release, the new GIC will replace the previous facility after almost 75 years, as it no longer met the changing market dynamics in the grain processing industry and in the development of future food products. A five-storey multi-purpose centre will now be built on an area of 2000 square metres, which can be used for tests and research on new products. Important questions can be clarified here, “such as how local raw materials can be used, how productivity can be increased, how safety can be improved and how the requirements for healthier and new products can be met,” it says.

    The new Grain Technology Centre combines Bühler’s past and experience in milling with state-of-the-art technology. “By integrating the GIC into Bühler’s network of application and training centres, customers in Uzwil benefit from an ideal facility that enables them to turn challenges into opportunities,” says Christian Geser, Project Manager Grains & Food at Bühler. The structural concept also includes Bühler’s Milling Academy and the school for animal feed technology right next to the GIC.

  • Aarau as a future cleantech pioneer

    Aarau as a future cleantech pioneer

    On 18 March 2024, AEW Energie AG held a co-creation workshop in partnership with the city of Aarau and other key players, which served as a platform for the development of sustainable technologies. This initiative, which was carried out in close collaboration with the Aarau Economic Development Agency and the Hightech Zentrum Aargau as well as companies such as Jura Management AG and Swisscleantech, underlines the common goal of transforming Aarau into an innovative cleantech location. The workshop focussed on the promotion of technologies for CO2 reduction and the use of renewable energy sources.

    The Mayor of Aarau, Dr Hanspeter Hilfiker, and Marc Ritter emphasised the importance of sustainable innovations and Aarau’s role as a pioneer in this area. The focus was on the development of cleantech solutions, particularly with regard to carbon capture and storage and the promotion of renewable energy sources. This approach reflects AEW’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and promoting sustainable practices that offer both economic and environmental benefits.

    The workshop collaboration demonstrates the potential of collective efforts to solve complex sustainability challenges. The ideas generated will serve as a basis for future pilot projects that will further strengthen Aarau not only as an innovative but also as an attractive business location for companies and start-ups. This approach underlines the endeavour to promote cross-industry cooperation and develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

  • Nüssli celebrates topping-out ceremony for eight-court sports hall

    Nüssli celebrates topping-out ceremony for eight-court sports hall

    Nüssli Schweiz AG, based in the St.GallenBodenseeArea, has celebrated the topping-out ceremony for the first eight-court sports hall built in Europe in the German town of Monheim am Rhein. According to a press release, the topping-out crown was erected on 26 February 2024. Nüssli was awarded the general contract for the construction of the sports centre in November 2022. construction began in 2023 and the building, which has two levels with four gyms each, is due to be handed over to sports operations after the 2024 summer holidays.

    “The pace is impressive. In fact, we are still so close to the schedule for this major construction project, which was ambitious from the outset, that we will probably be able to put the hall into operation as early as October,” Daniel Zimmermann, Mayor of Monheim, is quoted as saying in the press release. “You won’t even be able to tell from the outside that Europe’s largest sports hall is being built here, because we’re also going inside the site for the construction.”

    According to the company, the new sports facility in Monheim will have over 4,400 square metres of pure sports space in the eight halls on the basement and ground floor. Additional gymnastics rooms will be built on the upper floors. Changing rooms, technical facilities and utility rooms will be built on a further 3000 square metres. The individual halls on each floor can also be combined into large halls if required. Retractable grandstands can accommodate 500 spectators in the basement and 100 spectators on the ground floor.

    An innovative steel construction and the use of prefabricated components enabled a short construction time. In addition, the high-quality building materials used – including timber components for 600 wall, ceiling, roof and façade parts – ensure a long service life, according to the press release.

  • Venture Kick supports ceiling manufacturer Rematter with 150,000 francs

    Venture Kick supports ceiling manufacturer Rematter with 150,000 francs

    Rematter offers prefabricated wood-clay ceiling elements. The Zug-based start-up has received funding of 150,000 Swiss francs from Venture Kick for its further development. According to a press release, Rematter’s elements enable building owners, architects and engineers to easily comply with sustainable building regulations without having to compromise on the performance and price of traditional ceilings.

    The construction sector, which is responsible for 50 per cent of global resource consumption and 37 per cent of CO2 emissions, is heavily reliant on unsustainable reinforced concrete, according to the press release. Ceilings, which account for up to 65 per cent of building mass, are a major source of emissions. Rematter offers circular alternatives in the form of wood-clay elements. These reduce CO2 emissions by 80 per cent and energy requirements by 60 per cent.

    With its range of ceilings, Rematter serves the residential market as well as office and school buildings. The start-up company offers building owners, architects and engineers free structural design support, according to the Venture Kick press release. The housing market in European countries has an annual volume of 33 billion Swiss francs. The start-up intends to use the 150,000 Swiss francs to further automate the robot-assisted production of Rematter wood-clay ceiling elements.

    The founders and board members of the company, which was established in 2022, include CEO Götz Hilber, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Tobias Bonwetsch and Nico Ros as a member of the Board of Directors.

  • Innovative training centre for civil protection in Chur

    Innovative training centre for civil protection in Chur

    The new training centre in Meiersboda, located in the municipality of Churwalden near Chur, marks a decisive step in the development of civil protection in the region. In view of the poor condition of the previous building, which was around 50 years old, the government decided to construct a completely new building. This decision followed in-depth analyses and sustainability calculations, which showed a new building to be significantly more efficient and cost-effective than a renovation.

    The “ZicZAC” project proposal, which was the winner of a competition, envisages a three-storey timber building that blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The design impresses with its clear structure, natural building materials and a central atrium that provides light and clarity. The building complies with the Minergie-P-Eco® standard and integrates a photovoltaic system with an output of 100 kilowatts peak on the roof.

    The new centre will not only serve as a training facility, but will also function as a deployment and command centre for the cantonal command staff in the event of an emergency. It offers optimal conditions for the training and deployment of civil defence and partner organisations and helps to ensure operational readiness and resilience in crisis situations.

    The financing of the project will be submitted to the Grand Council for discussion and then presented to the Grisons electorate for approval. If approved, implementation planning will begin in autumn 2024, with construction starting in spring 2025 and commissioning planned for summer 2027. The project underlines the commitment to efficient, sustainable civil protection and sets new standards for training infrastructure in the region.

  • Launch of the competition for the “Aerogel Architecture Award 2024”

    Launch of the competition for the “Aerogel Architecture Award 2024”

    The fourth “Aerogel Architecture Award” is looking for inspiring examples of the use of aerogel in architecture and construction. The competition, which takes place in the categories “Realised Solutions” and “Student Designs”, offers a unique platform to present and honour innovative ideas and projects. An expert jury will select the finalists from all submissions, who will compete for the “Aerogel Architecture Award 2024” at an event on the Empa campus in Dübendorf on 12 July 2024.

    Architecture and civil engineering firms with projects in the areas of renovation, refurbishment or new construction can take part. Students of architecture and civil engineering are also invited to submit their designs and proposals for the use of aerogel. All projects will be assessed in a selection process that will be held in English. Realised renovation projects for listed buildings that have been improved with aerogel insulation materials will be particularly recommended.

    The award ceremony on 12 July 2024 in the NEST building on the Empa campus in Dübendorf will be available as a public livestream. The winning projects will not only receive recognition and public attention, but will also be published in international journals and on online platforms.

    Interested parties are invited to submit their projects in the form of a ZIP or RAR file by the closing date. Submissions should include a PDF poster in A1 format, JPEG images of the project, details of the use of the aerogel insulation and a registration form with a detailed description of the project. By entering the competition, participants agree to the publication of their project and confirm that they respect the rights to images, graphics and drawings of their submissions.

  • SVIT five Real Estate Symposium 2024: Innovative ways of recruiting skilled labour

    SVIT five Real Estate Symposium 2024: Innovative ways of recruiting skilled labour

    The shortage of skilled workers is one of the biggest challenges in the property industry. To counteract this, the SVIT five Real Estate Symposium 2024 will bring together leading experts to discuss new approaches to recruitment. Jan-Egbert Sturm, renowned professor of applied economic research, will share his predictions for the future of the industry. Markus Steckeisen, experienced entrepreneur and head of studies at the HWZ, and Yannick Blättler, entrepreneur and expert on Generation Z, will contribute their perspectives. The symposium serves as an essential information and networking platform for the property sector to develop and implement innovative solutions to the shortage of skilled workers. With this focus, the annual Real Estate Symposium is establishing itself as a must for professionals in the property industry.

  • AQUA4D has been treating water for 20 years

    AQUA4D has been treating water for 20 years

    The Valais-based water treatment specialist Planet Horizons Technologies is presenting the seventh generation of its AQUA4D water management system to mark the 20th anniversary of its launch, according to a press release. AQUA4D was first launched in September 2004 by the company based at the Ecoparc de Daval in Sierre in the canton of Valais. The latest product generation is the result of extensive research and innovation aimed at optimising water management in various sectors, according to the press release.

    “From Daval Ecopark, we continue to develop, test and assemble our products dedicated to the protection of water pipes in Switzerland and the optimisation of irrigation around the world,” the press release continues. “Thanks to in-house manufacturing at our Swiss headquarters, we can fully control our production processes and ensure optimal quality and efficiency,” said Nicolas Masserey, Production Manager at AQUA4D.

    Planet Horizons Technologies has equipped more than 100 public buildings in Switzerland with its sustainable AQUA4D water treatment system. The innovative technology can also be used to improve the water quality of hospitals and schools. The technology utilises electromagnetism using a patented method to remove limescale deposits and protect against corrosion and bacteria. The system can be used primarily in old buildings with long-standing pipework and in areas with high levels of limescale in the water. This not only improves the quality of drinking water, but also reduces maintenance and servicing costs.

    With experience from more than 5,000 systems installed in 45 countries, the company says it is also finding increasing favour in Switzerland.

  • Holcim cooperates with the largest climate incubator in North America

    Holcim cooperates with the largest climate incubator in North America

    Holcim is now working with Greentown Labs to accelerate the development of new climate technologies for sustainable construction. The premium partnership with Greentown Labs, called Terawatt, gives Holcim preferential access to promising start-ups focussing on innovative and sustainable building solutions, according to a press release. The aim is for Holcim to become an early adopter of cutting-edge technologies for the decarbonisation of the construction industry.

    Greentown Labs is the largest incubator for climate technology start-ups in North America. The business incubator, with locations in Somerville, Massachusetts, and Houston, Texas, is home to more than 200 start-ups. Since its foundation in 2011, it has supported over 525 start-ups with laboratory space, shared offices, machine and tool workshops, electronics, software and business resources and a large network of experts. Holcim is also joining the Greentown Industry Leadership Council, which provides strategic advice to Greentown on issues such as shortening the time from technology development to market.

    “The combination of Holcim MAQER Ventures, our venture capital programme, with Greentown’s outstanding selection of successful climate tech start-ups will serve as a catalyst to reinvent how the world builds for a regenerative future,” Holcim’s Head of Sustainability Nollaig Forrest is quoted as saying. Through MAQER Ventures, Holcim says it is working with hundreds of start-ups in its open innovation ecosystem and is conducting research in 15 areas, from ultra high-strength concrete to 3D printing.

  • Winterthurs Innovationslabor Grüze – Vorreiter für zirkuläres Bauen

    Winterthurs Innovationslabor Grüze – Vorreiter für zirkuläres Bauen

    Winterthur bereitet sich auf die Eröffnung des bahnbrechenden Innovationslabors im Stadtteil Neuhegi-Grüze vor. Dieses Gebäude, das im Frühjahr 2024 seine Pforten öffnen wird, ist nicht nur ein Zentrum für Informationsaustausch, Veranstaltungen und innovative Bauexperimente, sondern dient auch als gemütliches Kaffeehaus und Begegnungsort. Mit seinem Engagement für nachhaltiges Bauen und seiner vielseitigen Nutzung wird das Labor die Entwicklung des gesamten Stadtteils maßgeblich beeinflussen.

    Im Zentrum des Projekts steht ein revolutionäres Konzept, das von der Stadt Winterthur, der Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften (ZHAW) und Holcim entwickelt wurde. Es basiert auf dem Prinzip des “Leihens statt Besitzens” von Bauteilen, wodurch eine nachhaltige Ressourcennutzung und eine signifikante CO₂-Einsparung erreicht wird. Die verwendeten CPC-Elemente, eine Innovation der ZHAW und der CPC AG, sind sowohl belastbar als auch filigran und ermöglichen eine Reduzierung des CO₂-Fußabdrucks um bis zu vierfach sowie Materialeinsparungen von bis zu 75%.

    Der Ansatz des Innovationslabors Grüze besteht darin, Bauteile als wiederverwendbare Ressourcen zu behandeln. Holcim übernimmt dabei die Verantwortung für die Demontage und Wiederaufbereitung der Bauelemente für den zukünftigen Einsatz. Dieses Konzept stellt eine Win-Win-Situation für Bauherren und die Umwelt dar, da der herkömmliche Gebäuderückbau entfällt.

    Die innovative CPC-Technologie, entwickelt von der ZHAW und unterstützt von Holcim, markiert einen Wendepunkt im Hochbau. Sie ermöglicht eine effizientere Bauweise mit reduzierten Ressourcen und bietet neue gestalterische Freiheiten, insbesondere bei der Integration von Haustechnik.

    Die erfolgreiche Umsetzung des Innovationslabors ist das Ergebnis einer engen Zusammenarbeit zwischen Partnern mit umfassender Fachexpertise. Martin Joos vom Tiefbauamt Winterthur hebt hervor, dass das Ziel von Anfang an war, Neues zu wagen und Nachhaltigkeit in den Vordergrund zu stellen. Das Innovationslabor Grüze spiegelt den fortschrittlichen, aufgeschlossenen Geist des Stadtquartiers Neuhegi-Grüze wider, das als eines der wichtigsten Entwicklungsgebiete in Winterthur gilt.

  • Ein erfolgreicher Treffpunkt der Baubranche

    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.

  • Winterthur’s Grüze innovation lab opens in May

    Winterthur’s Grüze innovation lab opens in May

    In May 2024, the Grüze Innovation Lab will open on St.Gallerstrasse in Winterthur. According to a press release, it is planned as a versatile meeting place where visitors can find out about the large-scale Grüze crossing construction site. In addition, the filigree building, which is open on all sides, will be a place for discussions on urban development issues, possible conflicting goals and the effects of climate change on the urban population.

    The approximately 120 square metre pavilion with exhibition space, stage and café has a modular design and can be extended in modules. The statics were designed for a two-storey, closed building. This takes into account the possibility that the innovation lab could grow into a neighbourhood centre with increased space requirements in the medium term. For the time being, it is planned for a useful life of ten years.

    The innovation lab was developed by the Winterthur Civil Engineering Office in collaboration with the Department of Architecture, Design and Civil Engineering at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) and Holcim Switzerland. The extra-thin and recyclable concrete slabs made of carbon fibre-reinforced concrete (CPC) from CPC AG reportedly save up to 75 percent material compared to conventional concrete construction methods. CO2 emissions are to be reduced by a factor of two to four.

    The CPC concrete elements, which emerged from a long-term research project at the ZHAW, can be dismantled into their component parts with little effort and rebuilt elsewhere or reused for another structure. Holcim produces them and makes them available on loan. The prefabricated elements are assembled within a few days in the spring.

  • Ecocycle technology from Holcim receives award

    Ecocycle technology from Holcim receives award

    Holcim’s Ecocycle technology has been named a “beacon of the circular economy in the built environment”, according to a press release. This was announced as part of a joint initiative by the consulting firm McKinsey & Company and the World Economic Forum at its annual meeting in Davos. The award recognises pioneering solutions that demonstrate a novel, unique approach to the circular economy, proven and substantial impact of high value, and significant scale and maturity.

    Holcim already operates over 100 of its Ecocycle recycling centres. According to their own figures, they recycled almost 7 million tonnes of construction waste into new building solutions in 2022. This corresponds to over 1,000 lorry loads per day. This network is to be expanded to 150 locations by 2030. In Europe alone, the Group plans to recycle over 20 million tonnes of construction waste. Ecocycle makes it possible for concrete, cement and aggregates to contain between 10 and 100 per cent recycled demolition materials without compromising on performance.

    “With our advanced recycling of demolition materials, we can already reduce the carbon footprint of cement by up to 40 per cent,” Holcim’s Head of Sustainability Nollaig Forrest is quoted as saying. “This is just the beginning. With our innovations and partnerships along the entire value chain to further develop building standards, we want to accelerate the transition to circular construction in all the urban centres in which we operate.”

  • Implenia and Empa join forces for CO2-negative building materials

    Implenia and Empa join forces for CO2-negative building materials

    As Empa ‘s realisation partner,Implenia is building the Beyond Zero Unit in Empa’s NEST building in Dübendorf, the construction and real estate company based in the Glattpark district of Opfikon announced in a press release. The new unit will be used for research into CO2-reduced and CO2-neutral building materials. The Beyond Zero Unit will be integrated into the middle level of the NEST research and innovation platform.

    “We are delighted that Implenia is able to enrich the great research and innovation platform NEST with a new unit as a partner,” said Jens Vollmar, Head Division Buildings at Implenia, in the press release. “As a leading Swiss construction and real estate service provider, we are thus jointly providing important insights for the future, CO2-reducing construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure.” Implenia intends to use the knowledge gained from the Beyond Zero Unit for its own developments and planning.

    The new unit in the NEST building is not the company’s first collaboration with the research institute. “Implenia has realised pioneering sustainable buildings on the Empa Campus in Dübendorf, most recently a laboratory and office building and the first car park in hybrid timber construction in Switzerland,” explains Empa Director Tanja Zimmermann. “The fact that Empa and Implenia are also working together in research into innovative building materials with this new partnership and are investigating promising applications over a longer period of time on our NEST platform promotes the direct transfer of sustainable innovation into practice.”

  • Innovation Park Innovaare is ready for occupancy

    Innovation Park Innovaare is ready for occupancy

    The overall contractor ERNE AG handed over the buildings of the Switzerland Innovation Park Innovaare to the investor CPV/CAP Pensionskasse Coop and the operating company innovAARE AG on 20 December. Completion of the innovation park has therefore been completed on budget and on schedule, innovAARE AG announced in a press release. “The lighthouse project Park Innovaare is a joint project and confirms the commitment of all partners involved in the canton of Aargau to invest in the innovative strength and competitiveness of our companies,” Christian Brönnimann, Chairman of the Board of Directors of innovAARE AG, is quoted as saying in his speech at the opening.

    In his speech, Daniel Erne, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ERNE AG, explained that the realisation of cleanrooms and laboratories had brought with it practically every conceivable challenge. Danilo Zampieri from the CPV/CAP Coop pension fund drew attention to the building’s façade made of wood and solar panels.

    The first tenants temporarily housed at the neighbouring Paul Scherrer Institute(PSI) and other companies are due to move into the Innovation Park buildings as early as January 2024. The PSI will occupy around two thirds of the space. The remaining space will be allocated to companies specialising in photonics and quantum technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and semiconductor technology as well as energy and the environment. With an occupancy rate of 85 per cent already achieved, the innovation park is “making very good progress”, explains Brönnimann.

  • Venture Kick supports Planeto with 150,000 Swiss francs

    Venture Kick supports Planeto with 150,000 Swiss francs

    Planeto has received 150,000 Swiss francs from Venture Kick, as detailed in a press release. The start-up sponsor from Schlieren is thus recognising the development of the Thermal Energy System Simulation Assistant (TESSA) by the company from Plan-les-Ouates. TESSA is designed to facilitate the installation of district heating and cooling transmission systems.

    According to the press release, district heating and cooling is a good approach to reducing CO2 emissions when heating and cooling buildings. However, the installation of such systems is challenging. TESSA is intended to provide a remedy here. The software enables the simulation of corresponding systems and takes geodata and building physics into account. Artificial intelligence is used in the process.

    Planeto intends to use the fresh funds to equip TESSA with new functions, implement a marketing strategy, drive forward business development and recruit new employees.

  • Building Envelope Forum comes to the Umwelt Arena

    Building Envelope Forum comes to the Umwelt Arena

    Building Envelope Switzerland invites you to the Management and Entrepreneurs’ Forum – all about craftsmanship 2024 on 24 April 2024. The all-day event will take place at the Umwelt Arena Schweiz in Spreitenbach. According to an announcement, the motto of the forum is “Healthy growth with and thanks to the energy transition”.

    “We are in the midst of the energy transition,” reads the invitation from the Association of Swiss Building Envelope Companies. This poses various challenges for players in the construction industry in particular. Full order books, a lack of skilled labour, time pressure and strong price fluctuations at all levels are buzzwords that can be added to at will.

    The management and entrepreneur forum will provide practice-orientated impetus in the form of specialist presentations and a panel discussion. According to the invitation, the aim is to convey how to keep a company fit and position it successfully on the market.

    According to the Swiss Building Envelope Association, it has been the centre of excellence for the building envelope industry since it was founded in 1907. Together with other professional associations, it offers basic and advanced training in all aspects of the building envelope profession at its two locations at Polybau in Uzwil and Polybat in Les Paccots FR. Innovative, forward-looking solutions and products are developed in collaboration with product manufacturers, building envelope specialists, science, research, technology, architecture and planning.

  • Swiss premiere 100% recycled aluminium for Green Metro Campus

    Swiss premiere 100% recycled aluminium for Green Metro Campus

    This is the third project in Europe and a first for Switzerland. Green has teamed up with Implenia, Ernst Schweizer and Hydro Building Systems to implement this innovative solution. The use of recycled end-of-life aluminium leads to a significant reduction of the CO2 footprint by a factor of 40 and more than 167 tonnes of CO2 emissions are saved.

    The 100% recycled aluminium is used in the façade elements and reduces the CO2 footprint by a factor of 40 compared to primary aluminium, without compromising on quality. Roger Süess, CEO of Green, explains: “We are constantly exploring innovative ways to use new materials and are delighted that we have succeeded in doing so in collaboration with our partners.”

    Aluminium is considered a pioneering material for sustainable construction due to its strength, lightness and durability. It can be recycled almost indefinitely, using only 5% of the energy required to produce primary aluminium. Due to these excellent recycling properties, aluminium is already seen as an important part of a circular economy and its importance in the construction industry is expected to increase.

    The façade elements for the new office building will be manufactured by Ernst Schweizer AG, while the aluminium will be produced by the Norwegian Hydro Group. This is currently the only manufacturer that can produce high-quality 100% end-of-life aluminium without the addition of primary aluminium and with a near-zero CO2 footprint. Although recycled end-of-life aluminium is currently available in small quantities and is associated with higher costs, the four partners are setting an example by using this promising material in Switzerland for the first time.

  • Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area receives four new buildings

    Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area receives four new buildings

    The Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area in Allschwil will more than double in size in stages by 2028. The private investor Senn Resources from St.Gallen is investing around 350 million Swiss francs in the four new buildings planned. Together with the main building, which opened a year ago, they will form the Main Campus site. The Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area also has two other sites: the Jura site in Courroux and the Novartis Campus in Basel.

    As with the main building, three of the four new buildings will be designed by architects Herzog & de Meuron, according to a press release from the Innovation Park. The “radically sustainable” Hortus office building is already under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2025. The All and Cloud laboratory and office buildings are in the planning stage. The public-facing Hope building was developed in collaboration with the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute. Senn is building it with Basel architects Felippi Wyssen, who won the anonymous competition.

    “It is extremely gratifying that the partnership of a public and private institution has made it possible to build an innovation district of this size,” said Raymond Cron, Managing Director of the national umbrella organisation Switzerland Innovation. “This means that not only the life sciences location of Basel, but also the nationwide network of Switzerland Innovation ‘s six parks is gaining in importance.” “With Senn,” says Christof Klöpper, CEO of Basel Area Business & Innovation and CEO of Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area, “a private partner is making a major contribution to attracting innovative companies to the region and supporting the objectives of Switzerland Innovation.”

  • Hamilton Bonaduz AG is making targeted investments in its future development

    Hamilton Bonaduz AG is making targeted investments in its future development

    The renowned Domenig Architekten have once again been commissioned to design and realise the project. Construction work is in full swing along the A13 motorway and in the immediate vicinity of the “1.0” building, which went into operation in 2018. The nine-storey building will be connected to the existing complex by a four-storey intermediate wing. The outstanding component of this new building is the 40 metre high-bay warehouse, which offers space for a total of 12,000 Euro pallets. The existing fully automated, rail-guided transport system will be expanded and the intralogistics will be seamlessly linked to the existing systems of building “1.0”.

    The modern appearance of this high-tech building is characterised by intelligent glass with an electrochromic coating. This glass, together with metal and photovoltaic panels, emphasises the vision of the Hamilton brand. The innovative glass façade darkens independently when exposed to direct or indirect sunlight and only allows 1% of the light energy to pass through when completely darkened. In order to generate and utilise electricity independently, a total of 5,400 m² of photovoltaic panels are installed on the roof and façade. In addition, heat energy and moisture from the ventilation system are recovered by a heat exchanger. The modern energy concept is rounded off by the use of a groundwater heat pump, which is operated by a heating network in Domat/Ems. The building will receive the coveted Minergie A certification.

    In keeping with the “Hamilton 1.0” project, the new building is being planned in detail from start to finish with the help of Building Information Modelling (BIM). BIM is a holistic working method for the integrated planning, construction and management of buildings. All relevant data is modelled digitally and all parties involved work synchronously with the same information.

    With “Hamilton 2.0 “, the BIM process is even continued consistently in the implementation phase: For the first time, the digital 3D BIM model is used exclusively, making conventional paper plans on the construction site obsolete.