spillmann echsle architekten

The House of Switzerland is a mobile building that serves a diplomatic function representing Switzerland’s professional sporting interests in various locations. Its wooden construction makes a connection between traditional and highly modern timber engineering. The largely standardised construction consisting of 193 elements has a tectonic expression. Four archaic, radially arranged structures connected to each other by metal locks enclose an inner courtyard.

Structurally active red tension belts create associations with stacks of wood or freight. The image of a tied bundle is a key part of the concept: it symbolises Switzerland, made up of different regions, national languages and cantons. The dimensions of the prefabricated timber components correspond to the standard transport system. The entire assembly can be shipped in fourteen trucks. The individual elements are mounted on foundations, assembled, joined and bolted together during a total on-site construction time lasting less than two weeks. The result is a well-travelled and mobile house for Switzerland.