Innovative envelope design: Theo Hotz’ High-Tech construction for Zurich
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Date
2024-06
Publication Type
Conference Paper
ETH Bibliography
yes
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Abstract
The High-Tech Architecture of the 1970s and 1980s is commonly characterized by displaying components of building services as well as structural features outside the building envelope, evoking a technologically advanced appearance. Emerging in the 1960s in England, this architectural movement saw its genesis through the pioneering ideas of groups like Archigram, who signifcantly infuenced a subsequent generation of architects. Notable actors like Richard Rogers, Renzo Piano, and Norman Foster went on to realize iconic structures such as the Centre Pompidou, the Lloyd’s Building, and the Sainsbury Centre. In Switzerland, this development started in the early 1970s, culminating in a monumental structure, the Postbetriebszentrum (Postal Operations Center), designed by Theo Hotz (1970–1985). This building is articulated slightly diferently than its European counterparts: instead of sophisticated technological features like colored mechanic pipes or structural parts boldly displayed outside the envelope, the imposing structure is fully clad in profled aluminum panels. Its design and construction principles draw inspiration from transportation vehicles, including train carriages, automotive and aerospace engineering, as well as from naval architecture. After a short description of the historical development of diferent streams of High-Tech, this contribution explores the building history of the Postbetriebszentrum with a strong focus on its façade construction. Contemporary theoretical refections are considered as well as the actors involved in the execution of the design (e.g., architects, engineers, and construction companies). Finally, a comparative analysis is undertaken with a British counterpart, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts designed by Foster Associates (1974–1978), drawing parallels and distinctions between this Swiss High-Tech approach, embodied by Theo Hotz.
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Publication status
published
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Book title
Construction Matters: Proceedings of the 8th International Congress on Construction History
Journal / series
Volume
Pages / Article No.
66 - 73
Publisher
vdf Hochschulverlag
Event
8th International Congress on Construction History (8ICCH)
Edition / version
Methods
Software
Geographic location
Date collected
Date created
Subject
Organisational unit
09724 - Langenberg, Silke / Langenberg, Silke
02284 - NFS Digitale Fabrikation / NCCR Digital Fabrication
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Related publications and datasets
Is part of: https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000691554
Is derived from: https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-c-000788060