Michael Meier und Marius Hug Architekten: Züri WC on the Stadthausquai - best architects 16

Michael Meier und Marius Hug Architekten

Züri WC on the Stadthausquai

best architects 16

infrastructure buildings

Place

Zurich / Switzerland

Photos

Roman Keller

Description

The stone retaining walls along the Limmat embankment with their robust metalwork are hallmarks of both the Stadthausquai and the adjacent historic buildings, in particular the Women’s Baths and the Hotel Metropol. These buildings give the setting an identity befitting its high public profile and display high-quality detailing attesting to fine craftsmanship. For the Züri WC on the Stadthausquai, the metalwork adorning the adjacent buildings was a key inspiration for the choice of construction and materials. Another important reference point was the historical public toilets in the city of Zurich. These are well-proportioned small buildings with finely articulated façades that integrate them matter-of-factly into the cityscape. The new Züri WC echoes this idea with a façade of staggered aluminium strips. The structured design of the skin generates a relief effect, giving it the look of a cloak and ensuring a high level of robustness – in keeping with the demands of the public realm. The dark hue of the aluminium cladding harmonises well with the colours in the surrounding area.