Study trip to Switzerland: Are there new opportunities in the renovation and tourism sectors for Estonian woodhouse sector?

On September 26-27, 2024, Woodhouse Estonia organized a study trip to Switzerland, which included a visit to the Bauen & Modernisieren fair in Zurich and meetings with the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects (SIA). The goal of the trip was to understand the local approach to wooden construction and discover opportunities for Estonian woodhouse manufacturers.

The fair visit provided an overview of the Swiss residential market and renovation and construction solutions aimed at end consumers. Based on the participating stands, the focus was primarily on upgrading heating and cooling systems and utilizing solar panels. As well quite many companies represented facade renovation solutions using onsite renovation methods.

A valuable part of the study trip was the dinner organized by the embassy with Estonians residing in Switzerland, who are connected to the construction sector in various ways. Tõnu Mauring (software company Amenti AG) represents software that helps assess the profitability of development projects in the local market; architect Peter Sturtzenegger (Isler Architects); Marge Nermann (Bauroc Suisse), Liina Mauring (Partners Group), Hans Märtson (Hilti Group), as well as our economic advisor in Switzerland, Mirjam Loertscher, and export advisor Tiina Kivikas from EIS.

The second-day meeting with SIA representatives provided an overview of Swiss construction practices and planning processes. SIA is responsible for developing standards related to construction projects, planning, engineering, and architecture. Their standards define the quality and safety requirements for construction and design activities in Switzerland. SIA and other local architects pointed out that there is a strong emphasis on urban densification and the renovation of existing buildings, as opportunities for new construction are limited.

As a result of the study trip, two key areas emerged that Woodhouse Estonia and its members could focus on more: renovation and tourism. In Switzerland, there is a growing demand for wooden and sustainable buildings in tourism regions, offering interesting export opportunities for Estonian companies.

Participants of the study trip included: Annika Kadaja (Woodhouse Estonia), Martti Soidla (Tender Ehitus OÜ), Andrus Prangli (Hobbiton OÜ),  Meelis Rull (Furniture Cluster of South-East Estoni, Kase Furniture OÜ)

Study trip to Switzerland 2024. Photo: private