Maintenance depot and office building for Toggenburg Municipal Works
The site for this project straddles the threatened boundary between the natural realm, characterised by open orchards and gently sloped terrain, and the man-made realm, here populated by exceptionally large industrial installations and a major transport node where trains, cars and trucks intersect. Governed by such complex conditions, the site occupies sunken, sloping ground south-west of an elevated crossing for two important thoroughfares: Industriestrasse and Zwizachstrasse. The project idea uses single-point volumes with a space-defining character, based on the principle of a clear separation of functions and a strong presence. Using the tricky topography to its advantage, the new building is divided vertically into two areas, with logic and clarity dictating the placement of functions within. A solid plinth area embedded in the rising ground accommodates all depot operations, including a warehouse and workshops. This plinth is the base for a rectilinear volume containing multipurpose offices and tertiary areas, spread across three floors encircling a central courtyard. The straightforward assimilation into the site, the restrained appearance and the durable material palette speak of competence and security; they embody the infrastructure provider’s philosophy and give it an architectural expression.
