The competition – organised by Impact Hub Zürich – will select a studio or collective to help co-design a new ‘vibrant place of encounter for citizens’ within the 1930s complex which is planned for a major renovation.
The 3,000m² project – planned to complete in 2029 – will transform the building into a ‘vibrant hub for connection, collaboration, and events.’ The winning team will create a new 1,000m² gastronomy area with 600m² garden, a 700m² events space and 2,000m² of offices.
According to the brief: ‘The renovated Limmathaus will be about fresh ideas, bold action, and meaningful conversations. Impact Hub Zürich is taking over the iconic Limmathaus — a 1931 gem of modern architecture — and turning it into a vibrant hub for connection, collaboration, and events, all centered around sustainability and positive change.
‘It will host a restaurant, bar, club events, concerts, art exhibitions, coworking spaces, political panels, neighbourhood gatherings, pop-ups, dance classes, and more—almost around the clock. The opening will be in 2029, major general and indispensable renovations happen in the meantime.’
Limmathaus is a Bahaus style building which was constructed in 1931 and serves as an important cultural venue for Zürich. The building was originally intended as a community space for social encounters – featuring a restaurant and post office.
The latest project aims to fully open up the building so it can provide a restaurant and bar, club events and concerts, and exhibitions. Key upgrades will include the introduction of new co-working office spaces, relocating the main entrance and transforming a former cloakroom into an events space.
Round one applications should include up to five project and client references, a written explanation of approach and values, a short introduction video and links to a website or social media pages. Applications may be in English or German.
Up to six shortlisted teams will each be paid €3,500 to participate in the second round of the contest during which concept proposals will be drawn up in time for a June deadline. Interviews will be held with two finalist teams in July or August in Zürich.
The overall winner, to be selected in early September, will be paid to complete further concept development.
Competition details
Project title Interior Design Concept for Limmathaus in Zurich
Client Impact Hub Zurich
Contract value Tbc
First round deadline 11 May 2025
Restrictions Applicants must be based in Europe and have experience in the spatial experience and interior design of hospitality, gastronomy and culture interiors
More information https://limmathaus.com/de/opencall/