A look behind the facade
To assess the reuse potential of the HIL’s approximately 6,000 facade elements, a section of the facade was opened and examined in detail.
The Rhythm of HIL
Where and when is the HIL actually used? A project by ETH E&S and the LLHIL planning team reveals the building’s otherwise invisible patterns of activity.
What does HIL sound like?
What does HIL sound like today – and what could it sound like in the future? Two input projects explore the building’s acoustic identity: «Acoustical Archive» documents its current soundscape ahead of the renovation, while «HIL Future Soundscapes» develops a web-based acoustic design tool that enables sound to be integrated into the architectural design process from an early stage.
The ETH Executive Board and the ETH Board have approved Phase II
With the start of Phase II, the actual planning for the transformation of the HIL building's transformation can begin. Over the next two and a half years, the insights continuously gained from research, teaching and prototype development will gradually incorporated into a concrete construction project. This will form the basis for the subsequent implementation phase.
From façade to laboratory
An original HIL facade element is currently being tested in the laboratory. The investigations provide insights for the future retrofit of the facade.
Completion of the Context(s) HIL Master Thesis
Approximately 120 master thesis projects explore conceptual and design approaches for transforming the HIL building.
Master’s theses exhibition
Sat 23.5.2026 – Fri 26.6.2026, HIL Campus Hönggerberg, Foyers D and E
50 Years of HIL
Compare and be amazed! The urban context surrounding the HIL building has changed significantly since its construction due to the increasing densification of the campus.
Exhibition Digital Theory & Culture
Tue 12.5.2026 – Fri 15.5.2026, HIL Hönggerberg Campus, foyer in front of Lecture Hall E3
Window glazing U-values under test
The HIL façade is being inspected at various points on the building.
Exhibition HIL to HIL
Sat 21.3.2026 – Tue 14.4.2026, HIL Campus Hönggerberg, Foyer vor dem Hörsaal E3
Sika supports LLHIL
Sika supports ETH Zurich’s pioneering Living Lab HIL project as a funding partner.