HPL Life Science Platform ETH Zurich

The orthogonal volume of the new laboratory building is planned as part of the continuation of the existing development rhythm and completes the ETH Campus to the southeast. In contrast to the predominantly flat topography of the overall campus site, the building line is slightly inclined towards the southeast. This facility favours the use of the maximum permitted building height (within the scope of the special building regulations dated 27.06.2006). The building volume is planned two storeys higher than the surrounding buildings in line with the positive assessment of the building committee of the City of Zurich dated 29.05.2006.

The building geometry and the expression incorporate the new laboratory building into the existing campus. The linking of the building to the existing pedestrian network and the positioning of the main entrance on the level of the pedestrian bridges integrate the new laboratory building optimally into the existing facilities. In addition, the network of paths will be continued eastwards to the forest and connected to the local recreational area.

The design of the building structure is based to a great extent on the existing surrounding buildings. The precise language of form is implemented in contemporary manner. Thus the new laboratory building will become an integral part of the ETH Campus. The facade indents on the long side of the building volume optimise the penetration of daylight and also articulate the dwelling zones on the laboratory floors and the entrance area of the building.

The project has got the provisional certificate « Minergi-Eco » and will be the first accredited lab building in Switzerland.

Link to the webcam of the construction site