Location | Hauptstrasse 131, Frick AG |
Client | STAHLTON BAUTEILE AG |
Commission | Competition on invitation 2008 |
Planning | 2008–2010 |
Construction | 2011–2012 |
Architects | Graber & Steiger Architekten, Project Architect: Roland Stutz |
Consultants | Construction manager: Eigenmann Partner, Structural engineer: ZPF Ingenieure, Façade engineering: Metallprojekt GmbH |
Photographer | D.M. Wehrli |
A calm, punctiform volume counteracts the dynamic traffic flows and anonymous activities of the industrial estate, confidently rising above it. The new building thereby develops into the identity-forming address of Stahlton Bauteile AG and an impressive landmark at the entrance to the village of Frick. The alternating layering of building wings surrounds the courtyard-like interior and exterior spaces, encouraging communication and communal spirit in the company’s noise-protected rooms. The central themes of the client, which produces building elements, are picked up on and interpreted with respect to the structures, expression and materials. Phenomena such as supporting, spanning, joining and stacking are condensed in a spatial, atmospheric way to create an impressive whole that is conceived additively. A folded, relief-like envelope, which the company itself made out of glass-fibre reinforced concrete, adds a sculptural quality and depth through the lively interplay of light and shadow.
The current issue 13/2022 of TEC21 introduces the mixed-use conversion on Denkmalstrasse in Lucerne. Among others, the report highlights how the specific concept of the building achieves a lofty spatial openness despite a highly dense urban context and how the simple and raw spaces invite to a playful appropriation for living and working. Minimalism as an offer!