A Contemporary Comeback – “Haus am Platz” Redefined for the Future
A building for today – and tomorrow
Located directly on the vibrant Sechseläutenplatz, the building at Theaterstrasse 12 has shaped the face of Zurich’s city centre for over five decades. Known as the “Haus am Platz,” it has always been more than just a commercial property – it has been a place of exchange, purpose and identity. In 2024, the building underwent a complete renovation. The result: a striking example of sustainable urban redevelopment within the existing fabric. Through close dialogue between the developer, architectural teams, city authorities and tenants, a building emerged that retains its character while setting new standards.
Built in 1973, the “Haus am Platz” once reflected the architectural spirit of its time. But like many buildings of that era, it no longer met today’s standards in terms of technology, energy efficiency and design. The renovation by PSP Swiss Property changed that fundamentally: the entrance area was restructured, the façade fully redesigned, and the building technology brought up to the latest standard. The result is a future-ready, flexible property – ideally suited to modern user needs, right in the heart of the city.
A Building with Purpose and Presence
The goal was to create a functional, flexible, and at the same time welcoming building – a vision that could be realised particularly well at Sechseläutenplatz.
“Many of the previous tenants returned – a clear sign of a successful transformation.”
– Fabian Laube, Head of Construction & Leasing
The redesign was deliberately focused on balancing usability, adaptability and a sense of place – all key criteria for a location as prominent as Bellevue.
Architecture That Engages with the City
As part of a design competition, the chosen concept stood out for its integration into the cityscape and its respectful approach to the existing structure. The City’s Department of Urban Development played a key role in the process. The aim was to evolve the character of the building without losing its identity.
“A competition between six architectural teams resulted in the most compelling concept.”
– Marcel Honegger, Head of Construction
The building was not only architecturally upgraded – it was also reanchored: as part of a city that grows, transforms, and continuously redefines its identity.
Energy Efficiency by Design – Autonomous and Future-Oriented
Particular focus was placed on the building’s energy supply. Since a connection to the city’s district energy network was not feasible, the team opted for an independent, decentralised solution. A highly efficient building envelope, combined with photovoltaic systems and intelligent building technology, ensures minimal emissions and maximum energy performance – a system designed for long-term resilience.
“An autonomous energy concept with significantly reduced energy intensity.”
– Marcel Scheuber, Head of Energy & Building Technology
The result is an energy-efficient building that meets the highest technical and ecological standards – even without access to the municipal grid.
Preserving Substance while Shaping the Future
The decision to renovate rather than rebuild was a conscious statement in favour of using resources responsibly and honouring the building’s history. By choosing CO₂-enriched concrete, maintaining the primary structure, and enabling flexible future use, the project succeeded in preserving the building’s character while creating space for new generations to come.
“A new chapter for the building – without losing its substance.”
– Maik Neuhaus, CEO, Halter AG
The renovation stands as a clear example of how existing buildings can be transformed with quality – in a way that makes sense both ecologically and economically, and with a view toward the bigger picture.
The “Haus am Platz” has returned – a substantial piece of Zurich’s architectural history now stands firmly in the present. With this renovation, PSP Swiss Property has done more than modernise a building: it has sent a clear message – one of sustainability, urban quality, and a future in which existing structures are valued and skillfully reimagined. The address Theaterstrasse 12 remains the same – but its significance continues to grow.