Building and modernize Zurich

Since its founding in 1969, the “Bauen & Modernisieren” (Building & Modernization) trade fair in Zurich has been a mainstay of the Swiss construction and housing scene. Today, it ranks among the country’s leading public exhibitions for private home builders, renovators, and modernizers. Every September, the exhibition grounds in Zurich-Oerlikon transform into a central hub for anyone planning to build a house, carry out renovations, or improve energy efficiency. The focus is not on wholesale products, but on the real living needs of people. The fair is aimed specifically at private individuals and conveys expert knowledge in a clear and practical way—tangible, solution-oriented, and easy to understand.

The event is organized by ZT Fachmessen AG, an independent, family-run company now in its third generation. As one of Switzerland’s largest private trade fair organizers, ZT Fachmessen AG stands for continuity, quality, and a personal touch. This long-standing experience also shapes the character of “Bauen & Modernisieren”—an exhibition that delivers reliable information, offers hands-on product experiences, and provides space for individual consultations.

The fair covers the entire life cycle of a house—from the initial planning phase through new construction to renovation and interior design. Whether you’re taking your first steps toward home ownership, deciding between timber and solid construction, exploring financing options, or looking into innovative energy solutions, “Bauen & Modernisieren” offers concrete answers to real-world questions. Topics such as energy-efficient building, sustainable materials, smart home technologies, and modern bathroom and kitchen design—along with forward-thinking concepts for gardens and outdoor spaces—make the fair a comprehensive experience for anyone interested in modern living. Exhibits include everything from insulation materials, windows, heating systems, and solar panels to flooring, furniture, lighting solutions, and interior concepts—practical, accessible, and focused on real-life application.

A particular highlight of the fair is the annually changing, high-quality special exhibitions that bring central themes to life. For example, in the “DACH+WAND entdecken” area, visitors can experience various roofing and façade materials up close; in the “Smart Home” zone, they can explore cutting-edge connected home technologies; or in the “Energy – Rethought” showcase, they can discover modern heating and ventilation systems. The program is further enriched by formats like the “Planning & Consultation Hub”, where independent experts offer one-on-one advice—ideal for anyone in the middle of a project or just starting out. Sustainability also plays a key role, with exhibitions on ecological construction and a focus on natural materials such as wood and clay for a healthier indoor climate.

The venue—Zurich’s Messezentrum in the Oerlikon district—boasts excellent public transport connections and close proximity to the city center. With its wide-reaching appeal, the fair attracts not only visitors from the greater Zurich area but from across Switzerland. This well-informed and financially sound audience doesn’t just come looking for trends—they’re looking for real, practical solutions that are relevant, inspiring, and immediately applicable.

Bauen & Modernisieren is more than just a trade fair. It is a platform, a space for dialogue, and a showcase for sustainable, forward-looking building and living. For anyone looking to get informed, compare options, gather inspiration, and receive expert guidance—all under one roof—this event offers an ideal opportunity.

For the fifty-fourth time there is the Building and modernize on 4 days from Thur., 18.09.2025 to Sun., 21.09.2025 in Zurich.