Hello Wood Unveils Vibrant Pink Timber Complex on Former Zurich Railway Site

Budapest studio Hello Wood has completed Remise Rosa, a substantial timber complex in Zurich that injects a bold splash of color and contemporary design into a former railway site. The 2,500 sq m development is conceived as a year-round destination, integrating hospitality, entertainment, and relaxation spaces across three open-air levels.

A Bold Aesthetic

Clad in a distinctive rosy pink, Remise Rosa makes a strong visual statement, deliberately standing out within its urban context. The design, by the Budapest-based architectural firm, eschews blending in for a more assertive presence. This striking aesthetic is matched by a commitment to innovative construction, utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) as the primary building material.

Sustainable Timber Construction

Hello Wood selected CLT for its sustainability credentials, highlighting its renewable nature, durability, and suitability for long-term urban applications. The entire structure is a testament to the capabilities of modern timber architecture. Every component of Remise Rosa was manufactured with exceptional precision off-site through CNC-based prefabrication. This digital design and off-site manufacturing process allowed for a rapid on-site assembly, with the entire complex being erected in just five months.

Revitalizing Urban Space

The Remise Rosa project breathes new life into a previously abandoned railway area. It now serves as a vibrant social hub, featuring a restaurant, a beer garden, and various areas designed for entertainment and leisure. The multi-level, open-air design encourages year-round use and interaction.

Hello Wood’s Zurich Presence

This permanent installation marks a significant step for Hello Wood in Zurich, where the studio has been active since 2019. Previous projects in the city include Urban Surf, a timber-clad surfing venue; June & Julie, a seasonal pop-up bar; and Fräulein Holle, a public art installation. Remise Rosa, however, is positioned as a more ambitious and lasting contribution to the city’s landscape.

Visionary Architecture and Business Goals

According to CEO András Huszár, Remise Rosa represents the culmination of Hello Wood’s market evolution. He described it as a permanent landmark where architecture is intrinsically linked to the business, not just a passive backdrop. Huszár emphasized that the project demonstrates the potential when visionary timber architecture aligns with ambitious commercial objectives.

Inspiring Joy and Community

Lead architect Balázs Szelecsényi noted that the design aims to make visitors feel “special” and to “bring out their inner child.” He believes the project proves that innovative architecture can foster inspiration, strengthen community bonds, and contribute positively to business success. The undeniably photogenic nature of Remise Rosa invites exploration and suggests that sophisticated architectural design can coexist with genuine enjoyment.

Key facts
| Feature | Detail |
|—|—|
| Project Name | Remise Rosa |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Architect | Hello Wood (Budapest) |
| Construction Material | Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) |
| Area | 2,500 sq m |
| Construction Time | 5 months |
| Function | Hospitality, entertainment, relaxation destination |

The development of Remise Rosa highlights how innovative timber construction and striking design can transform underutilized urban spaces into dynamic social and commercial centers. It serves as a case study for the integration of sustainable materials and bold aesthetics in contemporary urban architecture, offering a model for future revitalizations.

Source: Wallpaper – A former railway site in Zurich is now a social hot spot clad in rosy pink timber – https://www.wallpaper.com/architecture/remise-rosa-zurich-hello-wood

Datos clave