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Subject Semester: Exhibiting Histories of Swiss Architecture - The Design Methods of Heinz Hossdorf
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:22
Abstract
The Fachsemester proposes to research Heinz Hossdorf’s design and construction methods between civil engineering and architecture, focusing on original materials stored in the architects’ bequests at the gta Archive, ETH Zurich, and the archive of Hossdorf’s engineering office in Basel.The result of the research will be presented as a gta-exhibition at the end of the semester.
Objective
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Heinz Hossdorf, the Fachsemester Exhibiting Histories of Swiss Architecture proposes to research Hossdorf’s design and construction methods between civil engineering and architecture, focusing on original materials stored in the architects’ bequests at the gta Archive, ETH Zurich, and the archive of Hossdorf’s engineering office in Basel. The semester will be divided into two main parts. The first, in collaboration with the gta Archive, will be a research-based activity using original archival materials. By exploring an uncatalogued bequest, it will be possible to identify key themes that will help reconstruct Hossdorf’s design approach in the collaboration with the architects. The second phase, in collaboration with gta Exhibitions, will be a design-based activity that will prepare an exhibition based on the archival findings of the first part. The students will become co-curators of the exhibition, which will open at Archena, ETH Zurich, in December 2025.
Content
Swiss engineer Heinz Hossdorf (1925–2006) was one of the most influential figures in Swiss architecture of the last century. His sensitivity to structural design made him a valuable discussion partner for numerous architects, such as Otto and Walter Senn, Vischer Architekten, Burckhardt Architekten, Felix Schwarz, and Rolf Gutmann. He contributed to projects with different architectural programs, materials, and scales, including a cement factory in Gunzgen (1960-62), the reading hall of the Basel University Library (1962-64), the Pavillon “Les échanges” at the Expo ’64 in Lausanne (1962-64), and the Stadttheather in Basel (1968-76). As a pioneer in the use of computational methods for structural design, Hossdorf witnessed the shift from traditional to innovative design methods. His models, both physical and digital, provided him the freedom to explore design ideas beyond existing engineering theories, architectural typologies, and conventional standards. Additionally, the sculptural forms of his built projects showcased innovative construction methods and technologies that contributed to the integration of material aspects, aesthetic expression, and structural behavior.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| independent project |
Subject Semester: Exhibiting Histories of Swiss Architecture - The Design Methods of Heinz Hossdorf
Does not take place this semester.
|
No time listed | 180 h semesterly |