Halle 550, Zurich-Oerlikon

The historical ABB halls in Oerlikon are significant architectural reminders of Zurich’s industrial past. Their proximity to the business and residential quarters of Neu-Oerlikon gives them greater importance. In accordance with a revision of the special building regulations, the building is now being preserved and for the most part placed under protection.

The halls are being renovated, reinforced and technically improved with great care and attention to the existing structure in anticipation of their use for public events and large gatherings. The building’s industrial charm will be maintained. In consultation with the historical preser­vation authorities, interior modifications are based on the principle of continuing construction. The elabor­ate, almost surgical concrete work blends naturally with architecture’s industrial character.

To establish the MFO Park as the neighbourhood’s centre, the halls are shortened and fitted with a temporary façade. A new glass skin allows this urban cut through the industrial architecture to remain visible. At the same time, it transforms the MFO Park halls into a contemporary urban building block with a transparent appearance that opens to the neighbourhood. The two lift doors that dominate the façade emphasize this inviting new public character.

The hall’s interior is characterised by a slender metal structure, the highest section of which rises 24 metres and appears to formally transform this area into a sacred space. A new exterior room is created within the building by removing skylights, forming an interior courtyard connected by large gates to the building’s circulation network. The vast exhibition areas have upgraded climate, technical and fire safety systems and are supplemented with two restaurant areas, a bar and workshops.