immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: Revitalisierung

  • Historic Spa District gets a new perspective for use

    Historic Spa District gets a new perspective for use

    Verenahof AG, based in Baden, wants to revitalize the building complex in Baden’s Spa District. To this end, it concluded a contract with the city on February 5. According to a press release, this forms the basis for the development and use of the complex and is intended to provide planning security.

    Verenahof AG has developed a utilization concept in collaboration with the city and the cantonal monument preservation authorities. This envisages combining assisted living for older people with cultural offerings and publicly accessible uses. The technical feasibility has already been examined. Now a building application and a cost estimate are to be drawn up within twelve months under the management of Verenahof AG.

    “The concept for services in the areas of prevention, rehabilitation and healthy ageing is a perfect fit for this historically valuable location for Baden,” said Markus Schneider, Mayor of Baden, in the press release. “The Spa District has been investing in health since Roman times – it is important for Baden and the region that this offering continues to be expanded in the future.”

    The complex has been vacant since the closure of the Verenahof, Bären and Ochsen hotels in 1987 and 2004. It has been under national protection since 2019. As the owner of Verenahof AG, the Bad Zurzach Baden Health Promotion Foundation has examined several uses, including for a rehabilitation clinic. These possible uses came up against the economic and structural framework conditions as well as the requirements for the preservation of historical monuments.

  • First stage Attisholz with UBS investment

    First stage Attisholz with UBS investment

    The Attisholz site in Riedholz is being given a new lease of life thanks to an investment by the UBS pension fund. The “Kocherei”, once a central location for cellulose production, is being extensively remodelled. The winning project by Burckhardt Architektur from Basel envisages around 150 rental flats and 4,000 m² of commercial space, which will breathe new life into the historic building.

    Collaboration between UBS and Halter AG
    The UBS pension fund, which acquired the 73,000 m² core site back in 2022, has now also confirmed its investment in the “Kocherei”. A work contract was signed between the UBS pension fund and Halter AG on 28 June 2024. While the UBS pension fund will act as investor and owner, Halter AG will be responsible for the planning and realisation of the project as overall provider.

    First stage of the site development
    The development of the Attisholz site, which is to be transformed into a sustainable living space over the next 25 years, begins with the first stage. In addition to the “Kocherei”, this also includes the “Lagerhaus” and publicly accessible open spaces. The design plan for this first stage is currently being drawn up in collaboration with the municipality of Riedholz and the canton of Solothurn and will soon be submitted for public consultation and approval.

    Sustainable and vibrant future
    The transformation of the Attisholz site into a vibrant and sustainable neighbourhood is an important project for the region. The revitalisation of the “Kocherei” and the creation of residential and commercial space are central components of this vision. The realisation of the projects is planned for the period 2025 to 2028 and will contribute significantly to the upgrading of the entire area.

    With the UBS pension fund as a strong partner and Halter AG as an experienced developer, the transformation of the Attisholz site will be driven forward swiftly and professionally in order to create a new, sustainable living space for the municipality of Riedholz.

  • A model project for Switzerland Ecological upgrading of the River Sihl

    A model project for Switzerland Ecological upgrading of the River Sihl

    Over a century ago, rivers and streams were straightened and dammed in many places in Switzerland in order to provide flood protection and gain additional land. Today’s knowledge shows that this has had detrimental consequences for nature. These formerly dynamic and diverse watercourses have become ecologically impoverished and monotonous ribbons of water. The situation is similar in the Sihlwald, whose near-natural habitats for animals and plants have largely disappeared. Fish migration is also significantly impaired by these construction measures. The current revitalization project aims to restore dynamism and diversity to the river area.

    Focusing on the project section in Sihlwald
    The core of the revitalization project is the river area at the Sihlwald terminus of the Sihltal-Zurich-Uetliberg railroad and the Zurich Wilderness Park Visitor Centre. With a length of around 1.8 kilometers, this section plays a key role in the Canton of Zurich’s revitalization planning and is a top priority. The aim is to enhance the ecological value of this section of the river and thus create new, high-quality habitats that are particularly important for animals and plants.

    Through the planned revitalization, those responsible hope to take on a pioneering role in the near-natural development of watercourses and at the same time increase the local recreational value for the population. This integrative approach should serve as a model for similar projects in other regions of Switzerland.

    More dynamics, more structure, more habitats
    Most of the Sihl’s current bank obstructions will be removed. New structural elements such as islands, large stones and more branches and rootstocks will make the river more diverse and dynamic than it is today. Thanks to a new fish ramp, the Sihl will be more passable for fish and other aquatic life. New ponds as well as wet meadows and rough pastures are also planned. All of these measures will create a variety of new habitats for animals and plants, thereby increasing biodiversity.

    On the right bank of the river, a zone will be created that will be reserved for nature. This quiet zone in the popular local recreation area will provide protected retreats for animals. This will benefit the kingfisher, for example, which is very sensitive to disturbance during the breeding season.

    Improving the quality of life
    The revitalization also makes the river area more attractive for people. Opportunities to spend time by the river and accessible ponds offer visitors insights into nature.

    To create a quiet zone for nature on the right bank, the current path below the visitor center will be moved to the left bank of the river. The footpath and cycle path will be separated there. This will give both road users more space. Along the new, varied footpath on the left bank of the river, the vegetation will be repeatedly thinned out. This provides interesting views of the wild riverbank opposite. Small footpaths lead to the river and to natural seating areas by the water. The bridge at the visitor center will be dismantled.

    Joint project between the canton ofZurichand SBB
    The revitalization of the Sihl is a joint project between the canton of Zurich and SBB. It is part of the environmental measures as part of the new concession for the SBB’s Etzelwerk hydropower plant. The ewz naturemade star fund and the federal government are also making financial contributions.

  • Revitalisation of an icon – living in the former PTT tower block

    Revitalisation of an icon – living in the former PTT tower block

    The high-rise building, once an important research and development centre for the former PTT, will be renovated by Pensimo and HRS over the next two years. In future, the ground floor is expected to house a day care centre and the 17 upper floors will offer 87 modern flats with far-reaching views. The tower block, which is only surpassed by Bern Minster, was the tallest non-sacred building in Switzerland when it was completed in 1972. After years of use for telecommunications research and start-ups, it is now being converted into a residential building.

    The 75-metre-high high-rise at Ostermundigenstrasse 93, built by Frey, Egger + Peterhans Architekten between 1967 and 1972, was inspired by Le Corbusier and is designed as a filigree disc. Future residents will be able to reach the centre of Bern quickly thanks to the nearby public transport links. The rental flats offer loft-like spaces with 1.5-5.5 rooms, high ceilings and a solid fit-out standard. Residents benefit from a breathtaking view of the Bernese Alps from their flats and the communal roof terrace at a height of 75 metres.

    The conversion of the derelict commercial and office space helps to promote urban development and the supply of housing. Utilising the existing structures significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to a new building. Completion and occupation are planned for spring 2026.

  • Pioneering new administrative building planned in Liestal

    Pioneering new administrative building planned in Liestal

    The vision of an innovative and sustainable administration centre is taking shape in Liestal: The HARMONIE project, designed by the planning team Buchner Bründler Architekten and Rapp AG, has prevailed in a demanding competition process and is now to be realised on the Kreuzboden site. The plans for the timber building are characterised by an outstanding urban design quality that blends harmoniously into the existing surroundings and is rounded off by a restaurant pavilion facing Rheinstrasse.

    The building is part of the strategic project “Optimisation of the Liestal administrative site”, which aims to consolidate the current 45 or so locations of the cantonal administration. The aim is to increase administrative efficiency and centralise administrative operations under the most modern working conditions. The HARMONIE project will make a significant contribution to realising this vision by bringing together numerous workplaces in an environmentally friendly and innovatively designed new building.

    The use of wood as a renewable raw material emphasises the Canton of Basel-Landschaft’s commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility. The project also contributes to the revitalisation of the urban core of Liestal and sets new standards in the design of public buildings.

    The public exhibition of all competition entries in February 2024 will give the public the opportunity to gain a comprehensive insight into the plans and be part of the dialogue on the future design of their administrative centre. The realisation of the HARMONIE project will therefore not only improve the working conditions for the employees of the cantonal administration, but also make a valuable contribution to the urban development of Liestal.

  • From industrial site to ecological tourism magnet

    From industrial site to ecological tourism magnet

    An innovative spirit characterises the project on the Isen, where the vision of a harmonious combination of tourism development and ecological enhancement is taking shape. Since the first presentation of the project by Isen AG in April 2022, key aspects such as the revitalisation of the Isentalerbach stream and its delta and the redesign of the lakeshore have been integrated into the planning based on feedback from the local population and expert advice. The relocation of the cantonal road was also incorporated into the optimised project idea.

    The latest developments, which highlight the ecological and infrastructural aspects of the project, were presented to the cantonal government and the municipal councils of Seedorf and Isenthal and were well received. The project managers are now working on the final details in order to finalise the process by mid-March 2024.

    The canton of Uri sees the project not only as a tourism benefit, but also as an opportunity to establish the region as an attractive recreational area. Significant positive effects on the local economy are expected, which is underpinned by a study commissioned by the canton on the economic potential of the project.

    The municipalities of Seedorf and Isenthal see the tourism project as an opportunity for the reorganisation of the Isleten region and are facing up to the challenges ahead in terms of traffic management, tourism impact and infrastructure requirements.

    The revised project idea will be presented to the public at the end of March 2024 as part of a comprehensive media conference and a tour of the site, followed by an online publication of the project details.

  • Bern plans to revitalise the Historical Museum

    Bern plans to revitalise the Historical Museum

    The Bern Historical Museum, which is over 130 years old, is about to undergo extensive modernisation and expansion. Following a thorough examination, the Education Commission has recognised the need for comprehensive modernisation and strategic expansion and recommends that the Grand Council approve the project planning credit of CHF 2.5 million. This step is important in order to press ahead with the detailed planning and cost estimates for the refurbishment, extension and integration into the newly designed Museumsquartier Bern.

    The Museum’s Board of Trustees has already set the course for a comprehensive renovation, which envisages both a complete refurbishment of the existing historic building and a modern extension. The planned extension is intended to improve accessibility, open up the museum garden and integrate it into the museum quarter. The new building will also make the museum barrier-free and support modern exhibition concepts.

    The Burgergemeinde Bern has already approved a loan of the same amount, and the City of Bern is expected to make its decision later this year. The Education Commission emphasises the advantages of the project, which will not only improve the museum’s infrastructure, but also increase the attractiveness of the site for visitors and open up new opportunities for cultural events and special projects.

    The approval of the project planning credit by the Grand Council is an important milestone for the project, which promises significant added value for the cultural landscape of the canton and the city of Bern. Following approval by the Grand Council and subsequent approval by the electorate, planning work should begin in autumn 2024, with the new museum building scheduled to open in summer 2027.

  • Thun’s step into the vibrant future

    Thun’s step into the vibrant future

    The area along the picturesque River Aare, which stretches between the bustling city centre and Lerchenfeld, holds a vibrant future for the city of Thun. The Tryber development will create a new, mixed-use and sustainable district that promises a wide range of possible uses. The special feature here is the deliberate retention of local qualities such as existing jobs, existing buildings and the favourable location, while the new forms of use are being introduced gradually and thoughtfully.

    A lively mix of regional businesses, culture, local recreational opportunities, gastronomy and mixed residential construction is being created in the Tryber. This mix not only revitalises the district itself, but also contributes to the vitalisation of the entire city and creates a new, vibrant sub-centre that enriches Thun as a whole.

    The foundations for this transformation from a pure workplace area to a lively, mixed district were laid in the “STEK 2035 urban development concept”, which identified the Thun-Nord area as one of four premium development priorities. Cantonal planning has given the area top priority. An important step towards planning and development security was taken with the start of work on the revision of the ESP Thun North structure plan. This structure plan forms an essential spatial and urban planning basis for the larger, as yet undeveloped areas of the Tryber Quartier.

    The development is a long-term endeavour that will gradually create an interesting mix of residential, commercial and leisure space on an area of 110,000 m2 . Where ammunition was once manufactured, a space for living, working and relaxing is now being created.

    The central company behind this project, RUAG Real Estate Ltd, is planning to revitalise the area along Uttigenstrasse in the Thun North development focus (ESP) and create a completely new sub-centre. An integral part of this development is the opening up of Uttigenstrasse, which has been reopened to traffic after a long break of 40 years. The planned new “Thun Nord” S-Bahn stop is also an important element in improving access to the site.

    RUAG Real Estate Ltd has a sustainable vision for the development of the Tryber. It is not intended to be an abrupt change, but a gradual transition that makes the most of the existing building fabric and only creates something new where it is absolutely necessary. Innovative concepts such as co-working spaces, pop-up uses and other interim uses are being considered in order to create a “trendy quarter”.

    RUAG Real Estate Ltd’s ambitious revitalisation of the Patronenfabrik visibly marks the start of the guided Tryber development. Around 1,000m2 of light-flooded and freely divisible office and studio space is being created in a stately historic building directly on Uttigenstrasse and in the immediate vicinity of the future S-Bahn station.

    The S-Bahn station in particular will not only position the Tryber as a local link between Thun’s city centre and Lerchenfeld, but will also increase its accessibility and attractiveness beyond the region towards Bern, the Mittelland and even as far as Valais. The coordinated planning between RUAG Real Estate AG and the planning department of the City of Thun ensures that the Tryber project will proceed in harmony with the other planned developments in the Thun North ESP and lays the foundation for a dynamic, well-connected and vibrant community that will take root in Thun in the coming years.