As part of a major project of transformation of the Fribourg railway station's area, the studio won in 2012 a competition for a new tower.
The project now includes 19 floors for a total height of 68 meters, against 17 floors originally planned. Many negotiations between the contracting authority (SBB) and the "Association Ancienne Gare" (AAG) concerning the direct impact of the construction site, and adaptations relating to the urban developments, in close relation with the tower, involved a necessary modification of the initial construction planning.
From now on, the building permit for the Esplanade Tower is expected in 2019 for a delivery by 2022.
On 12,000 m², the new tower will include a mixed program:
-An underground passage with 520m² of shops and a new access to the SBB tracks.
-Commercial surfaces (370m ²) on the ground floor, open on the esplanade.
-The 1st and 2nd floors will host various programs: a training center, medical centers, a fitness studio, a dental office.
-From the 3rd to the 8th floors: 4100 m² of offices..
-On the 9th floor, a restaurant and co-working spaces, as well as a large panoramic terrace.
-Housings from 2 to 4 rooms, on the 10th to the 18th floor.
-On the 19th floor, the largest apartments (5 rooms) with a breathtaking view of the city.
Image credits: SBB
