Vögele Kultur Zentrum

About the museum

The house was founded in 1976 as the Seedamm-Kulturzentrum by the entrepreneur and patron Charles Vögele (1923–2002). He wanted to promote art and, above all, to give young people access to art and culture. Alongside monographic exhibitions, symposia and performance days, a collection of contemporary Swiss art developed, which was expanded until 2010. The operation is carried by the Stiftung Charles und Agnes Vögele, established in 1998.

The building was designed in the 1970s by the New York architecture firm Copeland, Novak and Israel, which otherwise mostly planned shopping centers. The result is a spacious, hall-like exhibition space with an American flavor, which was recognized by the Schweizer Heimatschutz (Swiss Heritage Society). In 2010 the building was carefully renovated to restore its original generosity and to gain additional space for thematic exhibitions.

After 33 years of classic art programming, the foundation council decided on a new direction in 2009. Since 2010 the house has operated as the Vögele Kultur Zentrum and presents multidisciplinary, elaborately staged exhibitions on themes that shape everyday life, such as work, humor, family, death or boredom. The exhibitions combine science, art and everyday perspectives and are especially aimed at young people. The school program is free of charge.

Highlights

• Elaborately staged multimedia thematic exhibitions on social questions
• Participatory and creative stations for young and old
• Building by the New York firm Copeland, Novak and Israel from the 1970s
• Cafeteria with lounge and terrace overlooking Lake Zurich
• Free admission on Thursdays, 17:00–20:00

Founded

1976

Operated by

Stiftung Charles und Agnes Vögele

Director

Valérie Molière

Admission & discounts

Free admission: Free admission for everyone every Thursday from 17:00 to 20:00

Free admission also for members of Raiffeisenbank, registered school classes, people with a refugee ID, and holders of the Museumspass, VMS, ICOM, AIAP, Visate and KulturLegi cards. Payment by cash, credit card, debit card, PostCard and Twint.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Step-free access; the exhibition is wheelchair-accessible, and the second upper floor can be reached by a stairlift. A wheelchair is available; walking aids with rubber tips are allowed. Assistance dogs are welcome, other animals are not. The house is a TiM museum.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations

Children are welcome; the exhibitions are best suited to children who can already read well (from about age 10). Children up to 16 have free admission; there is a family ticket and private family tours on request. Children must not be left unsupervised. Childcare is available in the nearby Seedamm-Center.

Getting there & parking

By car via the A3 (Zurich–Chur), exit "Pfäffikon Seedamm-Center," then follow the signs.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop
• Coat check
• Lockers
• Wi-Fi

Cafeteria with lounge and terrace with lake view (in summer). Cloakroom with free lockers; large bags, backpacks and umbrellas may not be taken into the exhibition.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events

Up to 120 guests.

Seminar room for 50–80 people, auditorium for up to 120 people, lounge, terrace and parts of the exhibition space for apéros of up to 50 people; additional services such as apéro, shuttle and staff on request.

Plan your visit