Markus Schietsch Architekt:innen : Office for Consumer Protection, Canton Aargau - best architects 26

Markus Schietsch Architekt:innen

Office for Consumer Protection, Canton Aargau

best architects 26

office/administrative buildings

Place

Unterentfelden, Switzerland

Photos

Federico Farinatti

Description

The Office for Consumer Protection ensures the protection of human and animal health. The new building is an example of sustainable construction with the aim of developing a future-oriented working environment for the 80 employees. It is one of the first laboratory buildings in Switzerland to be constructed using a hybrid timber and concrete design, combining efficiency and sustainability with the high demands of laboratory use. Bright, open work and laboratory areas are arranged concentrically around a central concrete core. A total of 2,600 cubic metres of wood from the Aargau state forest was used for this purpose. The concrete core meets the demanding vibration requirements for measurement laboratories. The sustainable choice of materials ensures a natural atmosphere and reduces the ecological footprint. A central open space beneath the core promotes exchange and collaboration. Bright workplaces, pergolas and a strong connection to the outdoors create a modern working environment that focuses on networking and knowledge transfer. The building also sets standards in terms of energy efficiency: a groundwater heat pump provides heating and cooling, while the photovoltaic system on the roof supplies electricity. A salt storage facility stores excess energy. The use of native species for landscaping enhances biodiversity and creates a pleasant outdoor environment. Thanks to continuous planning with BIM (Building Information Modelling), processes were implemented efficiently and precisely. Digital tools such as BIM2Field enabled smooth construction.