Docomomo International became aware by Docomomo Switzerland that the Wohnbedarf shop at Talstrasse 11, Zürich, designed by Marcel Breuer and Robert Winkler, 1932-1933, is under threat due to the proposed renovation works.

“On 21 January 1933, Wohnbedarf AG (wobag) moves into the new Zurich business premises designed and built by Marcel Breuer and Robert Winkler. Wohnbedarf still operates a furniture shop at this address today, which is known far beyond the Swiss borders.We recently learned that the owners of the building, which also housed the Zurich Stock Exchange, were going to carry out renovation work on the facades and interiors. Important new technical installations threaten the largely preserved interior structure. The renovation of the facade also calls into question the exterior signage. Max Bill was involved in the Lettering, Herbert Bayer and Richard Paul Lohse designed the first catalogues and advertisements. Since its opening, Wohnbedarf has maintained its social commitment through conferences and exhibitions with people interested in the history of functionalist furniture.”

Together with Docomomo Switzerland is willing to raise awareness on this cause and preserve Wohnbedarf shop’s architecture.

For more information, please go to: Docomomo Switzerland.
Read also the following pdf [German].