Initial situation
After several decades of deadlock in the urban expansion of Bern-Brünnen, Nüesch Development succeeded in bridging the A1 motorway with their project, creating more than 80’000 m² of developable land. Through its development, the lifestyle mall WESTside became the engine to the development of an new city district. Engaged partnerships between politics, industry, financers, land-owners, management and planners made it possible to implement a superlative project; superlative not only as regards architecture and lifestyle, but also in relation to the responsible handling of resources and interaction with the neighbourhood. Nüesch Development has been significantly responsible for the concept development and formulation of the task, for the architectural competition as well as for the development and coordination of all project elements of this complex and demanding project, up to the point at which building permission was granted.

Concept
WESTside deservedly carries the title ‘World of Experience’: the spectacular new construction by Daniel Libeskind marks the new western gate of Bern, architecturally and in terms of urban development. It also sets new standards in its unique and innovative combination of goods and services.

Realization
WESTside was destined to become an an icon of our times particularly because of its commercial designation mirroring our societal development. Could one even say it may become the modern equivalent of the Bernese Old Town? WESTside will even convince critical consumers and impress visitors having high expectations, it makes a commitment to the utmost in quality and relies on innovation to ensure its sustainable future potential.