Ampera House, Schaan, Liechtenstein

Multifunctional, energy-efficient, architecturally intriguing – at the Ampera House in Schaan, Liechtenstein, it was necessary to combine many requirements of modern architecture. No easy task – yet architect René Geiger succeeded in bringing everything together under one roof in the 6,000 m² and 7-story commercial property – quite literally.

The new construction – prominently located and highly visible – features two contrasting building parts. While the main body of the structure is kept in delicate natural tones, the extension stands out distinctly with its black facade. The contrast is further enhanced by the differing heights of the two building parts. Skillfully placed windows provide ample natural light in the rooms and prevent overheating in the summer. Additional energy efficiency is ensured by a free-cooling system, district heating, and a large photovoltaic system on the roof.

The facade is defined by the interplay of vertical window bands with the prefabricated concrete elements, for which our formliner 2/122 Yukon from the RECKLI SELECT series was used. The rocky texture with irregular surface enlivens the facade without appearing restless – and unfolds its aesthetic effect especially in combination with the smooth, black facade of the annex building body. Approximately 22 m² of our molds were produced for the concrete elements cast in the precast concrete plant of Frickbau AG.