Stories that move us

Stories that move us

As the leading real estate company, we create added value and sustainable living spaces, innovatively and passionately. Our real estate investments and products set high standards and we constantly strive to create added value for our stakeholders. We are steadfastly committed to sustainability and accept responsibility for our actions, our environment and the society.

Green leases – a marathon rather than a sprint!

With its Energy Strategy 2050, the federal government has set the course for a future of reduced environmental pollution. This means that sustainability issues and ESG (environment, social, governance) will continue to grow in importance and will be increasingly embedded in individual corporate strategies.

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«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

Stücki Park – where life sciences and business come together

Since 2017, the site in Basel known simply as «Stüggi» to the locals is being completely transformed and repositioned. A former shopping centre has been turned into an urban development for leisure, entertainment, work and – above all – research, development and knowledge transfer. The former dyeing factory on the outskirts of the city is turning into an attractive life sciences hub of nationalimportance.

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

Decarbonisation, net zero, buildings as power plants

Innovation smooths the way for sustainable executive management at Swiss Prime Site – and is firmly entrenched in our strategy. This enables us to implement innovation as an integrated principle across all our business fields. This is more important than ever in light of our climate target of «net zero by 2040».

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

Maaglive: an oasis for working, residential living and cultural activities

The site of the former Maag Zahnräder AG near the Hardbrücke railway station was revitalised by the construction of Prime Tower, the Cubus and Diagonal annex buildings and the Platform corporate building. The buildings continue to shape the region to this day. The Maaglive project now marks the beginning of a new chapter.

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

The real estate sector in the metaverse

Tech companies are investing billions in creating the next generation of virtual worlds. As part of this, real estate companies could look to expand upon their current business models in a targeted way. Yet not everything that is technically possible is likely to lead to success.

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

Certification as a foundation for sustainable added value

We are convinced that sustainable, future-oriented governance increases the company's resilience. This particularly applies to Swiss Prime Site’s comprehensive real estate portfolio. The objective of certifying as many of the some 180 properties as possible enables the company to create a frame of reference, transparency and the foundation on which to generate ecological, economic and social added value for all stakeholders, for the long term.

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

The next stage in real estate asset management

Addition isn’t just for maths – addition can also create synergies, pool knowledge and optimise customer benefits. In early 2022, the addition of Swiss Prime Site Solutions and Akara resulted in a single company. Officially completed in mid-2022, this successful merger represents the next stage in real estate management. 

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

A new era of opportunity for sustainability

The phrase «turning point» is commonly used in various contexts at the moment. Epidemiologists, for example, are using it to refer to a new era and the considerably higher risk of pandemics. Politicians, meanwhile, are using it in the context of the war in Ukraine to describe the presumed end of a stable European order, in particular among the major powers. The expression reflects the fact that recent events have had such a profound impact that a return to any previous state of normality is no longer conceivable.

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

New Work at Swiss Prime Site

Since spring 2022, Swiss Prime Site employees have been enjoying not just a unique work location, but also new office spaces that epitomise the spirit of New Work. The return of floor space by a tenant in the Prime Tower offered the rare opportunity to move closer together and to merge and redesign two adjacent storeys.

Read Story

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.

«It’s there for everyone»

Real estate, journalism and art. What unites these three things? The unlikely answer comes vividly to life in the Medienpark in Zurich Altstetten, which weaves these elements together in a sensory symbiosis.

Portfolio Swiss Prime Site Immobilien Infrastructure Stakeholder

This building is the workplace for some 550 employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz, the joint venture formed by Ringier AG and Axel Springer SE in 2016. Together, they have formed the largest magazine publishing house in Switzerland, producing 30 titles with a total of 880 editions every year. The modern office building at Flurstrasse 55 also houses a wide-ranging selection of contemporary artworks. Join us on our viewing of a collection that is intended for everyone.

Since 2017, the majority of employees of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz have worked from the company’s premises in Zurich Altstetten. In just two years, Swiss Prime Site turned what was once a dreary office and IT complex into the Medienpark. But it’s not just the exterior of the glass-fronted building that shines. With its façade insets and a clever arrangement of office space, the building offers highly appealing, sought-after workplaces across five extra-high storeys. And the Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz section of the building captivates further with a colour concept that artist Shirana Shahbazi developed specifically for the space, as well as numerous artworks. With almost 100 pieces from the Ringier collection on display, the building also has plenty to offer from within, inspiring the employees who come into daily contact with them to pause, reflect and contemplate.

3 000 artworks in over 30 years

Michael Ringier, whose family owns the Ringier media group, is a passionate collector of contemporary art. He began in the 1980s, working piece by piece to amass a collection that today encompasses around 3 000 works. «We aim for depth in our collecting. For the artists represented in the collection, we usually have multiple groups of works from different creative phases that together are representative of their entire oeuvre. We follow artists as they develop and maintain an academic approach», explains Arthur Fink. He is the Assistant Curator at Ringier and has an overview of the entire collection.

The private collection turned «professional» in 1995 and is today considered one of the most important in Switzerland. But it is Michael Ringier’s promise to make the art accessible to «everyone» that makes it unique. In this regard, «everyone» means the thousands of employees across the company’s different locations and offices. As well as the Zurich sites in Seefeld and the Medienpark in Altstetten, other locations boast an impressive number of artworks in their entrance lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms and offices. «While Michael Ringier personally decides on every acquisition and loan, we are there by his side to advise him», says Arthur Fink. When he says «we», he means the small team within the family company working part-time or full-time to maintain the collection and everything that goes with it.

Art and journalism – non-identical twins

Visitors to the Medienpark and other Ringier sites in Switzerland may well ask – what does art have to do with journalism? But the more pertinent question might be – how do you ensure that valuable artworks survive unscathed in a busy, if not hectic, working environment? But Arthur Fink isn’t concerned. «There hasn’t been any malicious damage to the artworks yet. Where necessary, such as when a large painting is located at a critical exit, we protect it with Perspex. This prevents scratches or other careless damage to the artwork.»

When he considers the link between art and journalism, he takes an almost philosophical turn. For his boss, the two go hand in hand. Artists interpret the present day in their work and, in so doing, attempt to draw future observers closer to their view of things. «Artists capture world events, and process them in a way that enables the public to arrive at new perspectives of societal phenomena. They, too, are responding to the things going on around us every day», says Fink. At the same time, journalists seek to understand current events from their perspective and try to share something of the world in all its complexity with readers. This then manifests in a piece of text that at heart may correspond with or approximate a painting, a sculpture or statue.

Silent witnesses to hectic office life

Michael Ringier wants the works in his collection to accompany employees at the company, ideally to inspire them. This means that the artworks can’t be too imposing, something that becomes readily apparent as you go around the Medienpark. Although some of the works are very avant-garde, colourful and unusual, they are never loud or off-putting. «Many employees see the artworks as silent witnesses to their daily working life. And that is precisely what Michael Ringier had in mind», says a satisfied Arthur Fink.