VOGT wins the study commission “Destination Jelmoli - Roof Landscape”

The competition for the design of the roofscape is part of the renovation. The project involves the conversion of the entire building: retail spaces will be created in the base, while the upper floors will be dedicated to office use. The roof terrace is planned as a public space with a variety of uses, including a restaurant, an event area, break and flexible workspaces for mobile working, as well as gastronomy such as pop-up stands and spaces for cultural and fitness activities.

Since 1899, the Jelmoli building has undergone continuous development. The upcoming conversion will add an additional 4'000 m² of rooftop space across two levels. Our design draws on the site's history and transformation, translating them into a contemporary architectural language. The Jelmoli plot owes its distinctive form to its past. From the late Middle Ages, a water channel of the Sihl ran along what is now Uraniastrasse, powering several silk mills. We reference elements of these baroque gardens and reinterpret them in a contemporary context. On the lower terrace an orangery is planned, where potted citrus trees will structure and define the space. On the upper terrace a miniature urban forest will provide a place for rest and retreat. Many points across the terraces open up views of the Zurich skyline. Central to the concept are sustainable strategies that support biodiversity and improve the microclimate.

This video on our design approach was produced in collaboration with the client, Swiss Prime Site:

Destination Jelmoli - Roof Landscape

Website Swiss Prime Site: Jelmoli