Salzhausstrasse 21
2503 Biel
Biel: Ehemaliges Automontagewerk der General Motors Suisse SA
A classic modernist masterpiece
Planning and execution
1935/36: Phase 1 (Salzhausstrasse 21, 23, 31)
1949: Phase 2 (Johann-Aberlistrasse 15)
1955–59: Phase 3 (Salzhausstrasse 18; extensions to Salzhausstrasse 21 and 31)
Various alterations, conversions and refurbishments over the years
Architects
Rudolf Steiger; Biel City Planning Office (Phase 1)
Gebr. Bernasoni Arch (Phases 2 and 3)
Suter & Suter (Phase 3)
Client
General Motors Suisse SA (until 1975)
Other
Carl Hubacher: key civil engineer for Phase 1
1936–1975: General Motors Suisse SA as occupier; since
then: various occupiers
Awards
Inclusion of numerous buildings in the Canton of Bern’s building inventory as properties worthy of protection and preservation, as well as a group of buildings
Inclusion of the administration building and the assembly halls in the Federal Inventory of Cultural Property as objects of national importance (KGS Inventory: A-object)
Description
The General Motors car assembly plant, built in 1935–36, is regarded as a pioneering achievement in modern factory design in Switzerland. Its architectural significance was such that the extension of the office wing in the 1950s almost went unnoticed, despite the fact that it copied the New Objectivity style.
Visits and guided tours
Type of tour: Guided group tours; no individual tours
Booking: required
Group size: Maximum 25 people
Meeting point: In front of the main entrance to the office block (now the School of Design)
Guided Tours
Sunday, 11:00-12:00 - Bernadette Fülscher, Architektur- und Stadttheoretikerin
Sunday, 13:30-14:30 - Bernadette Fülscher, Architektur- und Stadttheoretikerin
Directions
A 3-minute walk from Biel-Bienne station
Location
Salzhausstrasse 21
2503 Biel