Urban Planning - The Productive City

14.11.2023 · Articles

Over the last ten years or so, companies have undergone major changes, both in the way they operate and in their needs. The development of a strategic identity for a business site therefore requires an understanding of the main urban issues and the needs of companies in terms of location, flexibility, network, environment, and services.

In this economic context, CCHE has developed the "Analysis of the Productive City" methodology. Based on a detailed multi-scalar and multi-domain analysis (spatial contexts, economic fabric, etc.), we can determine the types of businesses and related programmes for a business site (administrative, commercial, craft, industrial and/or technological), as well as the spatial application of this programming. In addition, it produces an identity concept that unites the players involved around the target activities, programming, and spatial feasibility.

This methodology responds to major economic changes and the evolving needs of businesses and employees by developing a strategic identity.

Identifying and designing for target companies

The definition of the programme and the distribution of floor space are analysed by economic segment, from the point of view of the intensity of customer relations, consumption patterns or the size of the company. This approach allows us to transpose the economic activities chosen in the architectural project according to their current or future characteristics and uses.

Example of analysis diagrams:

The industrial and craft market

Méthodologie de CCHE sur la Ville productive

The retail market

Méthodologie de CCHE sur la Ville productive

The administrative market

Méthodologie de CCHE sur la Ville productive

Strategic vision for The Hive Campus in Meyrin

Located in the Zimeysaver industrial zone, the project is based on the first vision developed by CCHE in 2014 and completed by proposing a living tech hub based on ICT and Cleantech. The project will take advantage of the existing companies in the area to attract new high added-value companies. It also complements the chosen fields by promoting R&D and the creative industry. To achieve this, the project aims to develop shared spaces (production, training, etc.) and flexible use of the site at any time of day. The Hive benefits from a high-quality environment that draws on the natural surroundings. As a result, the project reinforces the basic concept of the inhabited forest and offers a mix of programmes for living in the district 24 hours a day.

Architecture de CCHE pour le campus The Hive Suisse

A living, connected business hub

Croquis de CCHE pour le campus The Hive Suisse

Living Tech Hub 2030

Méthodologie de CCHE sur la Ville productive

Living Forest 2014

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