Keys to Forum Chriesbach handed over

June 7th, 2006

The administrative and research centre, which also houses the joint Eawag-Empa library, training facilities and a staff canteen, sets new standards in terms of sustainability. Structurally and technically, the building comes close to the limits of what is currently feasible. Calculations indicate that energy consumption at this centre, designed for some 120 staff, is four times lower than in a conventional building. Conceived as a «zero-energy building», Forum Chriesbach lacks traditional heating and cooling systems. Realization of the project depended crucially on close cooperation between the client, the architect (Bob Gysin + Partner AG) and the contractor (Implenia Generalunternehmung AG).

The clients Gerold Janzi (Research Facilities/BaFA) and Roland Schertenleib (Eawag Directorate), with the contractor Hans Peter Domanig (Implenia) and the architect Bob Gysin (from left to right).

The striking facade of Forum Chriesbach consists of adjustable glass fins, mainly designed to provide shade.

Media release [pdf, 33 KB; in German only]
www.forumchriesbach.eawag.ch [in German only]