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Zurich, Switzerland
Tenant Fit-Out Westpark
| Client | Universität Zürich (UZH) | ||||||||||||||
| General planning procedure | 2022 | ||||||||||||||
| Services provided by IB |
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In a pilot project, IB, acting as the general planner, implemented the office layout developed for the University of Zurich (UZH) between 2018 and 2021 for the first time. This layout creates an open, adaptable working environment that supports collaboration and individual needs. The goal is to consolidate administrative units within an innovative, flexible office environment.
Tendering and Project Outline
Initially, the planning office Vitra Consulting & Planning Studio developed the office layout for UZH’s pilot project at the Westpark office building (District 5, Zurich). Preliminary layout plans were designed in collaboration with user representatives to address change and space management requirements. IB then implemented the concept with minimal adjustments tailored to specific user needs. The leased spaces in Westpark (approximately 5,600 m²) spanning several floors in shell condition. IB was responsible for the planning and execution (SIA phases 31–53) of the interior fit-out, including building services planning.
Redesigning the Office Environment at the University of Zurich
The office layout approved in 2021 serves as the definitive planning framework for all upcoming UZH office projects. It follows a blended-office approach, offering a mix of work zones: Me-Space, We-Space, Common-Space, and Various Spaces. These zones support focused work, collaboration, and mobile working. At the same time, personalized offices are being reduced, and shared spaces are being purposefully expanded. The values embedded in the concept—sustainability, equality among organizational units, and digitalization—add further value.
Flexible Multi-Space Concept
As part of a neighborhood concept, each team has a designated area serving as their "home base." Each home base offers various work options.
Teams that collaborate closely are situated near one another to facilitate workflows. Given the concept's flexibility, there are no permanently assigned desks. Instead, team members choose their workspace within their home base according to their current tasks. Individual offices are replaced with retreat rooms for confidential discussions to avoid spatial hierarchies.
