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Administrative Building Canton of Solothurn

Solothurn

2024-

The new building presents itself as a confident and contemporary extension of the existing Rötihof along Werkhofstrasse. Its placement marks the termination of the city’s green belt while creating a strong connection between the eastern district and the historic old town. The articulated volume and striking façade give the structure a strong presence within the urban context. Two cross-shaped passages at ground level ensure integration into the surrounding urban fabric. An east–west axis links the St. Joseph quarter with the old town, while the north–south-oriented central mall connects Stadthausplatz with the Baseltor intersection. This creates a permeable ground floor with a distinctly urban quality. The structural system consists of a rigid frame made of laminated beech timber, with reinforced corner joints expressed as distinctive cross-shaped columns. A span of over eight meters allows for flexible interior layouts and gives the spaces a clear structural rhythm. The office floors are organized in an open grid, allowing for a wide range of spatial configurations—from traditional offices to open-plan working environments. At ground level, the idea of a “service mall” is brought to life: a central atrium, conceived as a light-filled courtyard and accessible from four sides, forms the functional and social heart of the building.

Plans

Phasing

Competition | 2024
Planning | 2025–

Client

Canton of Solothurn

Architecture 

HILDEBRAND

Planning

Urban Design | Büro11
Landscape Architecture | ChavesBiedermann
Structural Engineering | Walt Galmarini
Traffic Engineering | IBV Hüsler
HVACR | EBP
Cost Calculation | Itten+Brechbühl

Key Data

Procedure | Selective Project Competition
Award | 1st Prize
Surface | 37’900 m2 GFA
Volume | 151’000 m3 GAV

Visualisation

NightNurse