Walz 4.0 brings construction into the digital future
Mit dem Interreg-Projekt Walz 4.0 entsteht in der Vierländerregion Bodensee ein ambitioniertes Modell für nachhaltiges Bauen. Unter der Leitung der ZHAW werden handwerkliches Know-how, akademisches Wissen und digitale Technologien verknüpft. Ziel ist eine Baukultur, die auf Kreislaufwirtschaft setzt, Fachkräfte fördert und Grenzen überwindet – ökologisch, sozial und institutionell.
The Institute of Constructive Design at the ZHAW Department of Architecture, Design and Civil Engineering in Winterthur is taking over the Swiss lead in the Interreg project Walz 4.0. Together with universities and foundations from Germany, Austria and Liechtenstein, the aim is to create an educational and practical network by 2028 that merges traditional craftsmanship with innovative university research and digital tools.
Walz 4.0 is more than just a symbolic name. It deliberately draws on the journeymen’s travelling trade, a centuries-old form of experiential learning, and transfers it to the reality of modern higher education. Concrete construction projects, sustainable materials and digital applications are used to bring the transformation of construction to life.
Building sustainably means rethinking
Circular construction as the foundation for a new building culture. “In view of the climate crisis, circular construction in the sense of building on existing buildings and reusing components is more important than ever,” explains project manager Andri Gerber from the ZHAW. This is precisely where Walz 4.0 comes in: historical building fabric is preserved, materials are reused and new constructions are created in the spirit of resource conservation.
Special attention is paid to practical teaching. Craftsmen and students work together in teams on renovation and construction projects. Digital tools are used as well as centuries-old techniques. This turns theory into lived experience, a key success factor in the fight against the shortage of skilled labour and for a resilient construction industry.
A European network for innovation
Four countries, seven institutions, one common goal. Walz 4.0 brings together partners from four countries.
Switzerland: ZHAW Winterthur (lead partner), OST – Ostschweizer Fachhochschule, Denkmalstiftung Thurgau
Germany: HTWG Konstanz (overall coordination), OTH Regensburg
Austria: FH Vorarlberg
Liechtenstein: University of Liechtenstein
New learning centres, exchange formats and digital tools are being developed together. The aim is to create a cross-border dialogue that increases both the quality of construction and the attractiveness of skilled trades. The funding totalling around 5 million euros comes from the European Regional Development Fund, Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
Building bridges for the next generation
The great strength of Walz 4.0 lies in its interdisciplinary nature. Architects, heritage conservationists, civil engineers and craftsmen think and build together. The results should not only have an impact in specialist circles, but also provide impetus for politics, education and property development.
At the same time, the project creates space for experimentation. New construction methods are being tested, digital planning processes optimised and craftsmanship re-evaluated. The aim is a resilient, locally anchored and ecologically responsible construction industry, supported by people who have mastered their craft and are willing to learn new things.