GIESSEREI is an extensive collaboration encompassing interior design, art direction, and project management. Every design, architectural, and business aspect adheres to the highest standards of sustainability and social responsibility.
The name "GIESSEREI" translates to "foundry," honouring the historical former tin foundry on this site. The listed building, dating back to 1450, was carefully renovated, adapted to modern standards and conceptualised as the 'House of Sustainability'.
Spread over three floors and covering 800 sqm, the project comprises a conference venue, co-working spaces, a café and restaurant with an integrated shop, retail areas and a pop-up space. The location has emerged as a vibrant hotspot and platform for sustainable lifestyle, knowledge transfer and networking.
A unique process The client overseeing the house is a cooperative association dedicated to promoting sustainable development in the region. The project benefits from the commitment of over a hundred volunteer members, whose enthusiasm and connection to the location have been invaluable. As a core principle, the project involved members in the design process, as well as in all stages of renovation and fitting work. Through weekly meetings, guided workshops and open discussions, we developed an authentic design language that everyone could relate to. This tailored design concept had to be both multilayered and strong enough to adequately represent one of the most crucial topics of our time. As art directors, we were responsible for maintaining this overarching theme throughout every aspect of the project.
Every corner of the house showcases sustainable innovations, preserved historical details and functional custom-designed solutions. Wall texts spanning all three floors illustrate the most surprising and forward-thinking stories. From using sheep's wool as roof insulation to creating tabletops from leftovers of the local parquet industry, members found creative ways to participate, utilising their knowledge, skills and backgrounds.
The project has won a BIG SEE Interior Design Award and an ICONIC DESIGN Award in the Innovative Architecture category.
