Brunnenhof Zurich - From radio studio to modern school building with climbing cube and parkour facility
The historic Brunnenhof site in Zurich, home to Radio SRF for decades, is being revitalized: Since 2025, it has housed a modern school center with classrooms, a music school, and diverse activity areas. Under the direction of Jovanka Rakic from the City of Zurich's Office of Building Construction and based on plans by Spillmann Echsle Architects, the historic complex was carefully renovated and adapted to the needs of future generations.
From Radio History to the Education of the Future
Opened in 1933, the Zurich radio studio shaped Swiss radio culture for almost 90 years. After SRF's relocation to Leutschenbach in 2022, the site behind Bucheggplatz became available. Instead of demolition and new construction, the City of Zurich opted for a well-conceived repurposing – a model project demonstrating how preservation and contemporary architecture can be combined.
The eight-story tower will house classrooms for approximately 15 classes. The former cafeteria is being converted into a cafeteria for the all-day school program, and two former radio studios will be preserved as concert and event spaces.
Outdoor Activity: Climbing Cube and Parkour
The outdoor area of the Brunnenhof courtyard is also being redesigned into a place for movement, interaction, and creativity. A highlight is the new climbing cube, supplied by Vertical Technik AG, a Swiss specialist for outdoor fitness and leisure facilities. The parkour course was also partially built by Vertical Technik AG – it offers diverse opportunities for sports, games, and exercise and invites both students and local residents to participate.
A Project with Vision
Project manager Jovanka Rakic emphasizes the project's significance: "We are transforming a historically significant site into a vibrant learning and meeting space. The Brunnenhof will become a place where education, music, and movement come together in an inspiring way." With the conversion of Brunnenhof, the city of Zurich demonstrates how existing buildings can be used effectively and with a focus on the future for new educational purposes – a model for sustainable urban development and a vibrant architectural culture.
Opening: 2025
Location:
Parkour course Brunnenhofstrasse 20 Zurich 47.4009649, 8.5357539
Climbing cube Brunnenhofweg 30 Zurich 47.40096, 8.535754
