“Schönburg, Bern (CH) Theo Hotz Partner Architects, Marazzi + Paul Architects”. Building in Existing Contexts. Livingedited by Sandra Hofmeister, Munich: DETAIL, 2024, pp. 69-80.
(2024). Schönburg, Bern (CH) Theo Hotz Partner Architects, Marazzi + Paul Architects. In S. Hofmeister (Ed.), Building in Existing Contexts. Living (pp. 69-80). Munich: DETAIL.
2024. Schönburg, Bern (CH) Theo Hotz Partner Architects, Marazzi + Paul Architects. In: Hofmeister, S. ed. Building in Existing Contexts. Living. Munich: DETAIL, pp. 69-80.
“Schönburg, Bern (CH) Theo Hotz Partner Architects, Marazzi + Paul Architects” In Building in Existing Contexts. Living edited by Sandra Hofmeister, 69-80. Munich: DETAIL, 2024.
Schönburg, Bern (CH) Theo Hotz Partner Architects, Marazzi + Paul Architects. In: Hofmeister S (ed.) Building in Existing Contexts. Living. Munich: DETAIL; 2024. p.69-80.
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Table of Contents
The Revitalization of Schönburg in Bern: A Testament to Adaptive Reuse
The Schönburg building in Bern, Switzerland, has undergone a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into its historic structure. Once the headquarters of the Swiss Post, this eight-story building has been reimagined to serve as a vibrant hub for living and working. In the book “Building in Existing Contexts. Living” edited by Sandra Hofmeister, published by DETAIL in 2024, the authors Theo Hotz Partner Architects and Marazzi + Paul Architects share their vision for the Schönburg’s rebirth.
A Rich History
Originally built in 1970, the Schönburg building served as the main office of the Swiss Post for 44 years, housing around 1400 employees [[2]]. After its relocation in 2014, the building stood vacant, awaiting a new purpose. The complex’s unique architecture, with its deep floor plan, presented a challenge for its redevelopment.
Renovation and Revitalization
The renovation project, led by LOSINGER MARAZZI AG, aimed to preserve the building’s essence while introducing modern functionalities [[1]]. The result is a striking example of adaptive reuse, where the original structure has been thoughtfully integrated with contemporary design elements. The Hotelflügel, a 188-room hotel wing, is a testament to the project’s success. Despite the building’s deep floor plan, the architects successfully adapted the room sizes to create a functional and inviting space [[3]].
Sustainability and Contextual Design
The Schönburg’s revitalization is a shining example of sustainable design, as it breathed new life into an existing structure rather than constructing a new building from scratch. This approach significantly reduced the project’s environmental footprint. The architects’ commitment to contextual design ensured that the building’s original character was respected while still meeting the needs of its new users.
A New Hub for Living and Working
The revamped Schönburg now offers a unique blend of residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. The building’s rebirth not only preserves a piece of Bern’s history but also injects new energy into the city’s urban fabric. The Schönburg’s story serves as a beacon for responsible urban development, demonstrating the potential for adaptive reuse to revitalize urban landscapes.
the Schönburg building’s transformation is a masterclass in contextual design, sustainability, and creative problem-solving. As showcased in “Building in Existing Contexts. Living,” this project sets a new standard for urban renewal, inspiring architects, developers, and policymakers to reimagine the potential of existing structures.
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The Revitalization of Schönburg in Bern: A Testament to Adaptive Reuse
The Schönburg building in Bern, Switzerland, has undergone a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into its historic structure. Once the headquarters of the Swiss Post, this eight-story building has been reimagined
