Title Kesselhaus Cham
Year 2026
Client Cham Swiss Properties AG

The Kesselhaus once served as the energy centre of the Cham paper mill. Boilers and turbines powered production, while its distinctive chimneys made its function visible far beyond the site. Today, the former Papieri is being transformed into a new mixed-use residential and working district. At its centre, the listed Kesselhaus takes on a new role: with a restaurant, office spaces and fitness facilities, it becomes a public meeting place within the emerging neighbourhood.

The signage evolves from the building’s industrial DNA. Construction, rhythm, materiality and the recurring presence of cylindrical elements — from the former paper rolls to the chimneys — are translated into a new visual system. Circular rods made of steel and light form letters, numbers and symbols. Rather than merely referencing the architecture, the design continues its language with consistency.

On the exterior, the lettering is integrated directly into the corrugated structure of the metal façade. LED rods follow its rhythm and form the name of the building. During the day, the lettering becomes part of the façade; after dark, the Kesselhaus turns into a highly visible beacon — almost like a lighthouse for the new neighbourhood.

The same principle continues inside. Signs constructed from circular rods respond to the exposed concrete, steel and raw material character of the existing building. In this way, the signage becomes a natural part of the Kesselhaus — precisely integrated, clear in its function and closely connected to the character of the architecture.

Title Signage for an inspiring place of tranquility and encounter
Year 2026
Client Kloster Einsiedeln / Propstei St. Gerold
Architecture HK Architekten, Hermann Kaufmann, Christoph Dünser
Producing Schlosserei Kalb, Mader Werbetechni

The Provostry of St. Gerold lies on a small plateau on the southern slope of the Walsertal and is rooted in the Benedictine heritage. Over the past 1,000 years, the original hermitage has grown into a multifaceted architectural ensemble. In recent decades it has been expanded and revitalized with high quality standards and careful guidance by HK-Architekten. The now complex structure and the sometimes high number of visitors require a wayfinding system for basic orientation.Atelier Andrea Gassner created a rather restrained signage concept, fully aware that the key lies not in visual loudness but in appropriateness, recognizability, and logical placement within the cartography of paths and decision points. A core element of orientation is the archway that marks the main entrance in a welcoming way, along with a stele placed in the center of the courtyard directing visitors to various locations and offerings.The cross – as the central symbol of Christianity – forms the constructive base module for steles, posts, and wall elements. The legendary Provostry emblem – a delicate, linear abstraction of a mythical creature – served as the basis for the graphic design of the pictograms. These fulfill the important task of providing memorable, language-neutral communication.The designations are typeset in a contemporary serif typeface. The materials and color palette integrate with the architectural culture of the provostry: aluminum blocks, steel constructions, and anthracite and silver-colored surfaces. Beyond all pragmatic functions, the aim of this signage intervention is to inform quietly and helpfully while fostering identification with this special place.