Sihlcity Zürich

The site of the former Sihl paper mill is characterized by its location between the riverbed, highly trafficked roadways, and a rail line. With the Sihlcity development, the 42’000 m2 site was opened to the public. The result is a new city district with 100’000 m2 of multi-functional use, which is optimally connected to public transport and gives the diverse surrounding district its urban center.

Existing buildings that could be used sensibly and economically have been preserved, carefully renovated and interwoven with new construction in order to form a new inner-city district. The historic buildings, which are approximately 12 meters in height, are defined as a base. Above and adjacent, newly created volumes are layered up to a maximum height of 25 meters. A sequence of public squares form the center of the development, with Kalanderplatz and its brick building and emblematic high chimney from the turn of the century at its center. Early in the preparation of the master plan, a high value on public space was in the foreground: Sihlcity as an integral function within a diverse environment.

The outdoor public space remains permeable along the Sihl. The difficult situating of the river space covered by a motorway was consciously incorporated into the exterior concept and improved upon through various interventions such as public art and a riverside public staircase.

Client
Credit Suisse Real Estate Fund

Use
Shopping and entertainment center

Construction costs
CHF 626 million (basic construction)

Services
Project and construction planning
Design management

Awards
European Shopping Center Commendation 2008
Recognition for Good Buildings in the City of Zurich 2006-2010
Award for Good Buildings in the Canton of Zurich 2013