Breaking Glass in Effretikon
Exactly one year after the foundation stone was laid, on May 7, the City of Illnau-Effretikon held a topping-out ceremony for the new fire brigade and municipal services building. Built on Eselrietstrasse, the new facility will bring everything under one roof. From May 2027 onwards, it will house the fire brigade, civil protection, maintenance and forestry services, environmental and nature conservation departments, water supply, and waste management at one central location.
Following the welcome speech by Mayor Marco Nuzzi, City Councillor Rosmarie Quadranti thanked everyone involved on behalf of both the client and the future users for their contribution to the planning and construction process. Architects David Bühler and Reto Streit also expressed their appreciation for the successful execution of the project. The participating carpenters then upheld traditional topping-out customs, appearing in classic attire. With the traditional speech and the symbolic throwing of a wine glass to the ground, they asked for protection, blessings, and good fortune for the completed building. Naturally, the celebration concluded with a generous reception.
The structural engineers from LÜCHINGER MEYER PARTNER, together with project manager Caroline, were also delighted by the successful completion of the project and the festive occasion. The building was designed as a hybrid structure. While the basement level and the stiffening central section were constructed in reinforced concrete, the hall roofs were built using timber. Massive glulam girders spanning up to 18 metres were combined with ribbed slabs arranged between them. In the vehicle entrance areas, concrete frame structures were used, which also provide the building’s longitudinal stability.
We would like to thank our planning and construction partners for the successful collaboration.
Architects: Bühler Streit Architekten
Construction management: BGS & Partner Architekten
Groundworks/ Structural Works: LANDOLT GRUPPE
Timber Construction: Egli Zimmerei AG
Photos: Bühler Streit Architekten, LMP
