Markus Schietsch Architekt:innen
Office for Consumer Protection, Canton Aargau
best architects 26
office/administrative buildings
Place
Unterentfelden, Switzerland
Studio
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.

