SWISS LIFE | KPMG

Scope: Facade Architecture
Location: Zurich
Owner: Swiss Life | User: KPMG
General Planer: Gruner AG
Type: Remodel
Program: Office
Size: 25 000 m2
Status: Building Permit Granted

CONTEXT

The former Swiss Re office building is situated at the Badenerstrasse in central Zurich. The existing building was completed in the early 80’s and is in desperate need of a remodel in order to house the new KPMG headquarters. To retain its zoning privileges it is stripped down to its bare structure to be rebuilt as clearly visible volumes in its surrounding.

CONCEPT

The minimalist design approach emphasises the vertical double columns and expresses the structures true appearance to the outside. By projecting the geographic world map onto the floorpan, the building is divided into two main areas: “Generic Offices” and “Collaboration Spaces.”

CONTENT

The “Generic Offices”, elevated to the top floors, are clad with rough heavy concrete elements. The use of highly reflective metals on the ground and penthouse floors symbolises lightness and transparency towards the more public “Collaboration Spaces.” A mirrored blade marks the transition between these two zones, occasionally extending out to shield the entrances in an inviting gesture.