Zurich-based architecture studio kit | architects has completed a new operations centre for EKT, the energy and data infrastructure provider for the Canton of Thurgau in Switzerland. Located in Sulgen, the timber building is conceived as a freestanding volume that complements the site’s existing ensemble, clarifying its spatial organisation while allowing for future expansion.
A reinforced-concrete basement and plinth form the base of the building, with the three above-ground levels constructed entirely in timber. Offset upper storeys break down its overall mass in response to the scale of the surrounding context. A clearly defined main entrance establishes a visible point of arrival and gives the operations centre a stronger presence within the townscape.
Timber structure and flexible floor plates
The building’s primary structure consists of three vertically stacked glulam truss systems, creating generous, largely column-free floor areas that allow for flexibility in use.
Approximately 730 cubic metres of timber were used for the building and its facade. To put this into perspective, kit highlights that ‘an equivalent volume of timber regrows across Switzerland’s forests in approximately 30–40 minutes.’
Across the two office floors, which accommodate around 60 workstations, the interiors incorporate circular, non-toxic materials. Lightweight partitions combine spruce modular partition systems with textured glass, while timber-frame constructions are clad in hemp-fibre-reinforced clay boards. The spandrel elements are likewise finished with clay boards and clay plaster.
These materials contribute to the character of the interiors while supporting the building’s approach to indoor climate and building ecology. Integrated planting is also used throughout the office areas to contribute to the internal microclimate and employee well-being.
Compact organisation
The building is organised to minimise circulation and service areas. A single vertical escape stair core also accommodates building services and sanitary facilities, helping to reduce the amount of space required for circulation while making more floor area available for operational use.
At ground-floor level, the vehicle and storage halls are arranged within a single continuous volume. Above, the office areas are organised around centrally positioned communication zones containing meeting rooms, breakout areas, and a roof garden. These shared spaces are intended to support informal interaction between employees.
Energy and adaptability
The building is certified to the Swiss MINERGIE-A standard. Heating is provided by an air-to-water heat pump, while photovoltaic systems installed on the roof of the new building and two existing buildings within the EKT site have a combined capacity of 182 kWp. Clay panels and clay plaster used on the facade parapets and timber stud walls introduce additional thermal mass into the timber structure.
Long-term adaptability was also considered from the outset. The building can be extended by a further five structural bays to the south, with the structural system, grid, and overall organisation already anticipating this potential expansion. Within the office floors, the glulam truss structure creates generous, largely column-free spaces that can accommodate different layouts over time.
The facade structure and technical ceiling panels for electrical services, ventilation, heating, and cooling are coordinated with the building grid, allowing lightweight partition walls to be added along both the primary and intermediate grid lines without major intervention.
