“A whirlwind of architectural styles” that’s how I’d describe the Hochhaus zur Palme. Right here in Zurich’s Enge quarter.
This isn’t just any building. The Hochhaus zur Palme is one of Zurich’s oldest skyscrapers. It stands proudly at Bleicherweg 33. Completed in 1964 it’s a testament to the vision of architects Max Ernst Haefeli Werner Max Moser and Rudolf Steiger.
The name itself holds a story. It originates from a grand villa known as “Zur Palme”. This villa dating back to 1837 was designed by Hans Conrad Stadler. It boasted a lush garden full of palm trees. This explains the name which translates literally to “High House of the Palm”.
The original villa met its end making way for the modern skyscraper. The demolition wasn’t without controversy. Heritage preservationists fought the demolition. The old villa was one of the last remaining structures designed by Stadler. However a new building law allowed the project. The Hochhaus zur Palme rose.
The building’s design is unique. It features a windmill-like layout. It also incorporated a gas station a quick-service restaurant and a Credit Suisse branch on the ground floor. Clever isn’t it? The roof is a remarkable parking deck. It’s held up by spiral ramps a daring design. It even needed slight reinforcement later due to vibrations from cars.
The Hochhaus zur Palme’s courtyard is a shared space. It houses Credit Suisse the Anne Mosseri-Marlio Galerie and the Barbarian Art Gallery. Inside you’ll find Ilya Kabakov’s installation “The Fallen Chandelier.” A twisted golden chandelier on the floor tells a story of the past and present.
The Hochhaus zur Palme’s architectural legacy lives on. It stands as a symbol of progress and a blend of old and new. Swiss Life acquired the building in 2017. It’s currently undergoing renovations. It will become a temporary office space. Then it will return to the market. But its story the story of a palatial villa and a pioneering skyscraper will forever be etched in Zurich’s history. What a fascinating piece of Zurich history. Isn’t it?