From Old to Archive
New State Archive, Waldau
Repurposed, refurbished, and fit for the future: Our design for a new state archive is a model for the respectful approach to existing buildings – and has the twin objectives of saving resources and preserving valuable architecture.
The appeal of the original
The aim of the project is to reuse the existing Waldau Study Center of the University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland as the new State Archive of the Canton of St. Gallen and to expand the facility through the construction of a new depot. An open procedure was launched in order to find a long-term solution for the entire complex. Due to our deep respect for the architectural expression of the original building and our desire to achieve an optimal ecological quality, our design focuses on refurbishment and repurposing – combined with a series of tasteful design interventions.
In order to retain the appeal of the original building while saving materials, our concept envisages the reuse of as many of the existing building elements and materials as possible. In addition to this, user comfort will be enhanced through the use of regional, ecological, and sustainable materials.
Andrea Bianchi
Architect, Head of Design in Zurich
Gentle adaptation – major impact
The primary structure and the distinctive facade grid and architectural language of the existing building are retained in our project. Overall, however, a range of restrained interventions give the building an updated appearance that is timelessly modern and self- confident. This applies in particular to the new canopies and the red glazed parapets of the upper level. These lend the new State Archive the dignified presence of a public institution. The new depot is located in four underground stories to the north of the existing building. The floor plans minimize internal distances and simplify the working processes of the employees.
Wooded park
Visitors pass through the wooded park to the main entrance of the State Archive and then on into the generous foyer. This ensures that they always have a view of the green surroundings. A delicately structured wall of polished steel is located to one side of the main entrance. This generates a mirror effect that seems to draw the natural park deep into the archive.
Ecological quality
Besides the reuse of the existing built substance, our concept includes a number of further measures that are designed to reduce the energy needs and increase the energy efficiency of the building. These include a green roof with a PV plant that will both increase biodiversity and optimize the ability of the building to resist extreme heat.
