MS Wädenswil

The motor vessel Wädenswil of the Lake Zurich Navigation Company was put into service in 1968. The MS Wädenswil sails scheduled courses on Lake Zurich, but is also frequently booked for events. Since the latter is becoming increasingly important as a source of income for the shipping companies, the decision was made to give the ship a new interior design in addition to a technical update of the heating and insulation as well as adaptations to fire protection and handicapped regulations. Susanne Fritz Architekten won the competition.

The MS Wädenswil has a 1st class and a 2nd class, the transitions between which are fluid thanks to an overall design throughout the ship. While a brass-colored strip adorns the triangular bars in 1st class, 2nd class has rectangular vertical bars as wall cladding with brass knobs as impact protection.

Colors are dominated by muted blues and grays, inspired by the many moods of Lake Zurich's water and sky. The golden anodized window frames are retained and details from the 60s are reinterpreted in a modern way or combined with contemporary details. Stylistic references to the nautical world, such as classic light fixtures and hardware, bridge the gap between the past and an urban-modern design. A classic ship's floor with black joints, wall lights for brilliance, small details such as special fittings, are subtle references to the past.

Gastronomically, the ZSG relies on a new concept: a buffet in 2nd class with a counter allows guests to serve themselves. In 1st class, the ZSG continues to rely on white-covered tables with table service.

The MS Wädenswil was completed in spring 2021.