Wooden High-Rise “Rocket & Tigerli”, Winterthur

On the site of the former Swiss locomotive and machine factory SLM in Winterthur, there are large new builds sitting side-by-side with legacy production facilities to create an attractive, vibrant urban district that has become a new destination for jobs, residences, schools and recreational activities since revitalization began in 1990. 

This is the spatial and structural context for the world’s tallest wooden skyscraper “Rocket & Tigerli”. In addition to the core mission to use sustainable construction methods, our aim is to create a landmark that is as context-driven as it is bold and as iconographic as it is inviting, one that makes the most of the area’s distinct characteristics. “Rocket & Tigerli” marks the last of the tallest buildings in the revitalization master plan. As perhaps its most striking attribute, the pleated folding of the façade evokes the corrugated metal roof of a production shed and flips it into the vertical. The layer of spaces jutting out at an angle give the high-rise its sculptural aspect. These alternating bay windows and balconies lend the façade depth, three dimensionality and an oscillating dynamic, which extends around the building’s corners in an intriguing way to create the perception of torsion. The pleated effect also increases the depth of the façade, making the photovoltaic modules even more efficient. The green-black, almost iridescent surface harks back to the color palette of the historic steam locomotives manufactured by “Tigerli”.

Thanks to the materials used in the construction, for the façade and throughout the interiors, this is a truly environmentally sustainable building. Our construction methods rely on prefabricated modules to allow for maximum disassembly and the use of recyclable connecting components. With a structural core made of timber and F90-compliant clay panels, no concrete is used in the construction. The entire structure and most of the façade can be 100% recycled in line with circular principles, using alternative primary building materials with at least the same material quality as the original. With our optimized support and load-bearing configuration, the interiors allow for a wide variety of apartments and adaptions according to changing occupancy demands. There are different access options available for residential and gathering spaces that will meet the needs of all occupants. 

The transitions from public to private spaces are designed with nuance. The wide range of outdoor spaces in particular provides opportunities for neighborly and community interaction into the future. The flat roof of the high-rise can serve as a rooftop bar open to the public, complete with sweeping views of the Alpine scenery.