E2A / Piet Eckert und Wim Eckert Architekten
Zürich, Switzerland
Piet Eckert and Wim Eckert studied architecture at ETH Zurich and gained professional experience at OMA before founding E2A in 2001. Both are full professors at Dortmund Technical University and have taught at leading institutions, including the Accademia di Architettura in Mendrisio. Headquartered in Zurich, with offices in Berlin and Warsaw, E2A works across Europe on a wide range of public, cultural, corporate, and residential projects. Notable works include the taz publishing house in Berlin, the Deaconry Bethanien and School Campus Moos in Rüschlikon/Kilchberg, and the Geistlich Areal housing development in Schlieren. The practice’s approach is defined by hybrid systems and slender, efficient structural solutions that yield buildings resilient on multiple levels. In recent years, E2A has focused on urban transformation and inner-city densification through projects of greater scale and typological diversity. Key examples include WankdorfCity3 in Bern, the Zurich Nord High-Rise, in.grid in Berlin and MHub IPZ in Zurich-Dübendorf. Their work has been published internationally, including in AV Monografías and a+u.
2025 Biennial Project
Project Overview
5403 Apartment Building at Rietpark, Geistlich Areal
5403 Apartment Building at Rietpark is located at the edge of an old industrial area that is being redeveloped for housing. To make the most of this shifting urban landscape, the building opens its courtyard to the adjacent park, which helps block noise from the busy streets on three sides. Apartments are angled toward the courtyard, with balconies facing one another yet staggered to enhance privacy and a sense of community.
Previous work
Project Overview
Venue
View moreChicago Cultural Center
Address
78 E. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Neighborhood
The Loop
Description
Completed in 1897 as Chicago’s first central library, the building was established as the Chicago Cultural Center, the nation’s first and most comprehensive free municipal cultural venue, in 1991. One of the most visited attractions in Chicago, the stunning landmark building is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, as well as free art exhibitions, performances, tours, lectures, family activities, music, and more – presented by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and many others.
