Zurich military barracks become an education centre
Mit dem offiziellen Baustart beginnt die Transformation eines Zürcher Wahrzeichens: Die ehemalige Militärkaserne an der Sihl wird bis 2029 zum modernen Bildungszentrum für Erwachsene umgebaut. Dabei entstehen nicht nur Lernräume für rund 1600 Lernende, sondern auch öffentlich zugängliche Flächen – ein Projekt, das Geschichte, Bildung und Nachhaltigkeit verbindet.
After the cantonal police move out in 2022, the next phase in the history of the listed building will now begin. The 120-metre-long military barracks will become the new home of the education centre for adults. By 2029, a place for lifelong learning will be created in the centre of Zurich, supported by the cantonal baccalaureate school for adults and the EB Zurich vocational school. The aim is to open up new educational paths and career prospects for adults, from catching up on school-leaving qualifications to developing digital skills.
Architecture with respect and a future
The conversion project is based on the winning project from the 2019 architectural competition. The design by the “spillmann echsle / Takt” consortium combines respect for the historical building fabric with future-oriented educational architecture. The central atrium, a light-flooded inner courtyard with a glass roof, will be the centrepiece of the new learning space. At the same time, a public restaurant is being created on the ground floor in the former barracks canteens, including additional rooms for public-orientated uses.
Sustainable renovation of a national cultural asset
The technical, energy and structural renovation of the building is comprehensive. The badly damaged natural stone façade made of Bernese sandstone is being restored, windows replaced, modern building technology installed and a photovoltaic system installed on the main roof. In future, the building will be heated with district heating. The former barracks thus fulfils the highest standards in terms of energy efficiency and monument preservation.
Investment in education and society
With total costs of around CHF 180 million, the project is a significant contribution to educational and urban development. 122 million is earmarked for the renovation, while a further 58 million will go towards converting the building into an educational centre. The cantonal government and the cantonal council have already approved the funds. The school is due to open in spring 2029. A strong boost for Zurich as a centre of education and a symbol of the transformation of public spaces.