Urban Planning
(Andreas Fuhrimann Gabrielle Hächler Architects ETH BSA SIA AG)

The topographical situation of the Rotsee delta is unique, which is why the “Göttersee”, as it is known in rowing circles, is ideal for the organisation of rowing regattas. The requirements for the finishing tower were varied and complex. They were based on functionality, landscaping and the creation of an identity. The height development resulting from the stacking of the spatial units sets a vertical accent on the elongated horizontal surface of the Rotsee, which is thus given a point of reference and identification. The considerable building volume, resulting from the required spatial programme, was given a certain fragility and subtlety through subtle “shifts” of the three stacked spatial units.

Project description.
The finishing tower, completed in 2013, was the first stage in the renovation of the Rotsee nature arena. The new rowing centre was opened in May 2016. In principle, the rowing centre and the finish tower form an architectural unit that is recognisable through its materialisation, structural and aesthetic themes. The three-storey prefabricated timber structure of the finish tower is supported by a concrete platform and a concrete staircase above the water level. The structurally effective concrete platform provides access from land and water on the one hand, and to the first floor on the other. Together with the external staircase, which is formulated as a spine on the rear but no less prominent side, the platform anchors the tower close to the shore.

This reflects the hybrid character of the building, i.e. a functional building with intensive sports use during the rowing regattas in the summer, but also the unused state during the rest of the year, when the structure stands closed on the reflective water surface and transforms into a mysterious, sculptural house. This metamorphosis, which the building undergoes every year, was the demanding challenge of the design. The architectural expression of the prominently located finish tower in a picturesque setting must effortlessly master the balancing act between practical functionality and high sculptural aesthetic demands.

The programme
The functional space units OC, Jury Timing and Event Direction Speaker are aligned axially to the finish line and arranged one above the other. While the shorter façade front faces the finish line, the longer façade side faces the finish area and marks the end of the sports facility, which begins at the start line and extends via the rowing centre to the finish line.

Construction & Materialisation
The prefabrication of the timber construction made it possible to assemble the elements cost-effectively, quickly and efficiently. The façade formwork is made of specially treated pine wood from sustainably managed forests. The treatment significantly reduces the wood’s ability to absorb water, making it much more dimensionally stable and extremely durable.

Project data:
Location: Rotsee, Lucerne
Client: Naturarena Rotsee
Owner: Foundation Rowing Centre Lucerne – Rotsee
Architects: Andreas Fuhrimann Gabrielle Hächler Architects ETH BSA SIA, Zurich
Planners: Schärli Architekten AG (construction economics/construction management) Lucerne; Berchtold + Eicher AG (engineer) Zug;
Lauber Ingenieure für Holzbau & Bauwerkserhalt (timber construction engineering) Lucerne; 1a Holzbau Hunkeler (timber constructor), Ebikon
Project management: Daniel Stankowski
Competition: Andreas Fuhrimann, Gabrielle Hächler, Carlo Fumarola, Lukas Schlatter, Andrej Zouev
Planning: 2012 (May) – 2013 (March)
Construction time: 2012 (Dec) – 2013 (May)
Area: 123 m2
Costs: CHF 1.3 million
Photographer: Valentin Jeck, Zurich