Best Architects Award 2027 for the 2226 Hybrid Refurbishment at Universitätsstrasse

“Recognition for an exemplary refurbishment.”

The 2226 Hybrid Refurbishment Universitätsstrasse project by our Zurich office has been honoured with the Best Architects Award 2027. This recognition affirms our approach to not only preserving architecturally significant existing buildings but transforming them into sustainable, future-ready places.

The landmark office building from the 1970s has been carefully guided into a new life cycle without compromising its distinctive character. Renovated according to the 22·26 Hybrid method, the project exemplifies the considerable potential of existing buildings to harness mass, material, and space as active components of a climate-responsive architecture.

“Even complex existing buildings offer the potential to harness mass, material and space as active components of climate-responsive architecture.”

The façade materiality draws on the character of the existing building: a rhythmically articulated façade envelope, with the ground floor distinguished from the upper storeys by a continuous horizontal band. The interplay of boldly profiled cornices and pilasters references their traditional architectural expression.

Thanks to the 22·26 Hybrid method, building services, energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions have been significantly reduced, resulting in exceptionally low operating and maintenance costs:

Removing the suspended ceilings exposed the building's thermal mass, allowing it to store and release heat efficiently.
The mechanical ventilation system has been replaced by controlled natural window ventilation, which provides night-time cooling during the summer months.
Opaque façade elements reduce the proportion of glazing, helping to prevent overheating in summer.
Waste heat generated by equipment and occupants contributes to heating the building. A ground-source heat pump is used solely to meet peak heating and cooling demand.
Bio-based materials, including clay boards and clay plaster, create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.

The office building is the first building in Switzerland to be nominated for the BREEAM Refurbishment Outstanding rating.

Our sincere thanks to our Zurich team and to 2226 for this remarkable achievement.