Innovative envelope design: Theo Hotz’ High-Tech construction for Zurich

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.