Article source: Rene Schmid Architekten

Building 

Aesthetics and ecology converge in the architecture of the Umwelt Arena. A striking architectural feature of the Umwelt Arena is the crystalline roof structure with the photovoltaic system integrated into the building. This is intentional design. The large hall (arena) forms the centrepiece and conveys an open and inviting atmosphere. Solar heat is used to cool the Umwelt Arena in summer and heat it in winter. This is done by means of a distribution network (TABS) in the concrete floors and an earth tube system beneath the base plate of the bottom parking level. Cold water circulates through the network of pipes in summer, hot water in winter.

Image Courtesy © Michael Egloff

• Architects: Rene Schmid Architekten
• Project: Umwelt Arena
• Location: Spreitenbach, Switzerland
• Photography: Michael Egloff, Bruno Helbling, A Pix Alex Buschor Photography
• Design Team: René Schmid, Gøran Keuchel
• Initiator: Walter Schmid, swiss energy pioneer
• Client: Umwelt Arena AG Spreitenbach
• Build Area: ca. 11’000 m2 usable area
• Construction Materials:
  Roof – wood construction
  Floors/walls – concrete no cladding of any energy and building technology
• Building Costs: ca. 44 mio. CHF
• Completion: August 2012

(more…)