Turbinenplatz

Turbinenplatz is an urban square in Zurich’s Escher-Wyss district, within Kreis 5. Its concrete surface recalls the factories that shaped the former industrial area.

Birch trees break up the open space and provide greenery above the hard ground. Special cast-iron channels guide rainwater into planted infiltration basins.

ADR Sàrl, a Geneva design firm, created the square for its urban setting. Puls 5 and the Technopark stand around the square, alongside hotels and Schiffbau’s theatre annex.

These surrounding buildings connect Turbinenplatz with technology, business and theatre. Blue, orange and violet lighting give the square a different character after dark.

Alto Zürrus adds an experimental response to heat in the built-up city. An aluminium ring sprays fine water mist when sensors detect high air temperatures.

The fog installation hangs above the square from wooden poles. Additional trees support shade and cooling as they grow.

Turbinenplatz brings industrial material, planted water management and urban experimentation together in one public place. Its open concrete ground remains a clear meeting point between Zurich’s industrial past and urban present.