The grand **Amtshaus I** stands before you, its imposing facade a testament to Zurich’s rich history. Dating back to the 18th century, this building has witnessed the city’s transformations, from a humble orphanage to the headquarters of the Zurich police force. During the late 1700s, the **Amtshaus I** was built on the site of a former orphanage, commissioned by the local Oetenbach monastery. The building’s unique blend of Baroque and Classical architectural styles is a result of the work of the architect Gaetano Matteo Pisoni, who was renowned for his innovative designs. The **Amtshaus I** served as an orphanage for nearly a century, providing shelter and education to orphaned children.
In 1911, the building was transformed into an administrative building for the city of Zurich, serving as the headquarters for the Zurich police force. During this conversion, the basement was transformed into the grand entrance hall that we see today, a space that would eventually become a canvas for art. In 1922, the city of Zurich launched a competition to decorate the entrance hall with the goal of bringing light and a sense of purpose to the space. The competition was won by Augusto Giacometti, a renowned Zurich artist whose family was known for their contribution to the world of art. Giacometti’s captivating design transformed the space into a vibrant artwork, using bright and warm tones.
This masterpiece, known affectionately as the “Blüemlihalle,” features ornate floral designs and geometric patterns on the ceiling and vaulted roof. Giacometti’s work in the entrance hall, along with the entire **Amtshaus I**, was extensively restored in 2019, ensuring that the building’s grandeur continues to shine throughout the city of Zurich. Walking past **Amtshaus I**, you might notice the intricate artwork on the walls depicting various scenes of artisans and scientists at work, a testament to the importance of both craft and knowledge in society. The **Amtshaus I** stands as a testament to Zurich’s commitment to artistic excellence, a building that has served the city well, from caring for its orphaned children to securing its safety.