Construction Works for the Ittigen Community Center

The Ittigen community is developing the "Zentrum Rain" area, originally designed for 20,000 residents since the 1970s. A master plan from 2013 focused on enhancing outdoor spaces, with some measures already implemented. In 2020, a new kindergarten was built, and the council decided to create a meeting area instead of a parking lot. The renovation of the triple sports hall and multipurpose building was abandoned due to poor condition in favor of new construction. A comprehensive master plan for "Rain" was created to ensure optimal long-term use of the area. A single-stage project competition was held for the construction of sports and leisure facilities, seeking innovative and sustainable concepts. The winning project by LEISMANN AG serves as the basis for further planning and implementation. The facility in Ittigen is located on a terraced plateau, characterized by loosely distributed buildings and a fragmented avenue. To strengthen the main square, a two-story building was integrated as a new focal point, built into the existing triple sports hall. An arcade on the west side marks the entrance to the new center, creating an inviting atmosphere. The buildings are arranged to maintain campus permeability and promote connections between sports fields and the central square. The facade design reflects the concept of stacking and connections, featuring exposed concrete supports and wooden facade elements. Alternating window shapes enliven the facades and soften the architectural expression. The surroundings have been enhanced with tree rows and new pedestrian pathways to establish Rain Square as a central meeting place. Sustainability is emphasized through the preservation and selective loosening of concrete paving, as well as the creation of new green spaces. The redesigned square offers space for various uses while remaining flexible enough to be temporarily used as a parking lot.