Galerie König Büro

Galerie König Büro Zürich: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Zürich Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Role of Galerie König Büro in Zürich’s Art Scene

Galerie König Büro is a leading platform for contemporary Swiss art, celebrated for its innovative exhibitions and commitment to community engagement. Founded in 2020 by Susanne König, a seasoned curator and arts manager, the gallery has consistently championed emerging Swiss artists working in diverse media—ranging from painting and sculpture to photography, installation, and digital art. Originally housed in a repurposed laundromat at Birmensdorferstrasse 299, König Büro became known for transforming unconventional spaces into accessible cultural hubs, fueling Zürich’s vibrant art landscape (Galerie König Büro Official Info).

Though temporarily closed as of mid-2025 while seeking a new central location, the gallery remains a significant cultural force thanks to its rigorous curatorial standards and inclusive programming. Exhibitions at König Büro tackle themes such as hybrid identities, feminism, environmental stewardship, and digital transformation. These are often supplemented by guided tours, artist talks, and educational activities, fostering meaningful dialogue within the community. The leadership team, including Susanne König and curators like Catrina Sonderegger, draws on extensive experience from major Swiss and international art institutions, ensuring a high-quality visitor experience (LinkedIn).

This guide provides an in-depth look at the gallery’s history, visitor information, curatorial focus, and its broader influence on Zürich and the international art world.

Overview and History
Leadership and Curatorial Team
Transition from Consultancy to Gallery
Visiting Information: Location, Hours, Accessibility
Exhibition Program and Artistic Focus
König Büro’s Impact on Zürich’s Art Scene
Recent Challenges and Adaptation
Visitor FAQs
Digital and Interactive Experiences
Continuing Legacy and Impact
Planning Your Visit and Staying Connected
Guide to Zürich’s Historic Grossmünster
Summary and Practical Tips
References

Galerie König Büro: History and Founding Vision

Established in 2020, Galerie König Büro evolved from an art consultancy and exhibition management practice active since 2013. It was conceived as a venue dedicated to contemporary Swiss art, particularly emerging voices and innovative practices. The founding director, Susanne König, brings a wealth of experience from institutions like Zentrum Paul Klee, Kunsthaus Zürich, and Pro Helvetia Johannesburg, as well as academic credentials in fine arts, curatorship, and creative economies (Galerie König Büro Official Info).

The gallery’s first home on Birmensdorferstrasse was a former laundromat—an emblem of König Büro’s ethos of accessibility, transformation, and community engagement. This unique setting positioned the gallery at the intersection of formal innovation and social discourse.

Leadership and Team

Susanne König: Founder and director, with leadership roles at major Swiss cultural institutions and expertise in art management and curatorial studies.
Catrina Sonderegger: Curator, specializing in conservation, curatorial practice, and museum work at institutions including the Open Art Museum St. Gallen and Fotomuseum Winterthur.
Carole Kambli: Editorial and stakeholder engagement, focusing on public art and sustainability.
Thomas Spycher: Digital communications, with a background in industrial design and digital transformation (LinkedIn).

From Art Consultancy to Exhibition Space

Initially operating as an art consultancy, König Büro managed art production, site-specific projects, and collection management for private and corporate clients. This consultancy continues, advising on art placement and acquisitions for SMEs. The transition to a gallery space in 2020 expanded its impact, introducing a regular program of solo and group exhibitions across diverse media (Galerie König Büro Official Info).

Visiting Galerie König Büro: Location, Hours, and Accessibility

Status (as of June 2025): Temporarily closed, seeking a new central Zürich venue (preferably Kreis 1 or Kreis 8). For reopening updates, consult the official website or LinkedIn.
Former Address: Birmensdorferstrasse 299, 8055 Zürich.
Typical Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 12:00–18:00. Special events may extend these hours.
Admission: Free entry.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with accommodations available upon request (contact: [email protected]).
Getting There: Easily reached by tram and bus; limited parking available nearby.
Nearby Attractions: Kunsthaus Zürich, Swiss National Museum, University Children’s Hospital Zürich (featuring contemporary art installations).

Exhibition Highlights and Artistic Focus

König Büro’s exhibitions feature both solo and group shows by artists such as Michael Noser, whose “Walking Figures” blend traditional and contemporary forms. The gallery is recognized for programs emphasizing:

Hybrid identities and cultural narratives
Digital art and new media
Gender inclusivity (over half of exhibitions feature women artists)
Social engagement and environmental themes

Events are often complemented by guided tours, artist talks, and educational workshops that encourage community participation (Galerie König Büro Official Info).

König Büro’s Place in Zürich’s Contemporary Art Scene

König Büro is acclaimed for its curatorial rigor and commitment to supporting emerging Swiss talent. Its collaborations with architects, designers, and public institutions—such as site-specific installations at the University Children’s Hospital Zürich—underscore its relevance to both the art world and the city’s cultural infrastructure.

The gallery’s consultancy continues to support private and corporate clients in collection management, while its digital initiatives (virtual exhibitions, interactive tours) expand access beyond physical walls (LinkedIn).

Recent Challenges and Adaptation

Like many independent cultural spaces in Zürich, König Büro faced challenges due to rising rents and real estate scarcity. The closure of its Birmensdorferstrasse location in late 2024 was marked by a well-attended farewell event, reinforcing the gallery’s resilience and strong community ties. The search for a new, centrally located venue remains ongoing (LinkedIn).

Visitor FAQs

Is admission free?
Yes, entry is free to all exhibitions.

How do I book a guided tour?
Contact [email protected] or use the gallery’s website.

Is the gallery accessible?
Yes, with accommodations available upon request.

Are tickets required?
No tickets are needed, but reservations may be required for special events.

How do I get there?
Accessible via Zürich’s tram and bus network; see the website for details.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience: Digital and Interactive Media

König Büro’s website offers virtual tours, high-quality images with descriptive alt text, and interactive guides—making art accessible to a wider audience and providing enriching experiences for both remote and in-person visitors.

Legacy and Continuing Impact

Since its founding, Galerie König Büro has played a pivotal role in shaping Zürich’s contemporary art scene. Its dedication to emerging artists, interdisciplinary approaches, and public engagement ensures its continued relevance. The gallery’s online presence and digital initiatives keep it at the forefront of cultural innovation during its temporary closure (Galerie König Büro Official Info; LinkedIn).

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Stay up-to-date with König Büro’s reopening and new exhibitions by visiting the official website and following their LinkedIn page. Download the Audiala app for guided tours and curated content on Zürich’s art scene. For inquiries or newsletters, contact [email protected].

Guide to the Grossmünster: Zürich’s Historic Landmark

Introduction

The Grossmünster is a defining symbol of Zürich, celebrated for its twin towers and its role in the Swiss Reformation. Dating back to the 12th century, this Romanesque Protestant church is a centerpiece of Zürich’s architectural and cultural heritage (Grossmünster Official Site).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours: Daily, typically 10:00–18:00 (subject to seasonal changes and special events).
Admission: Free for the church interior. Tower access costs around CHF 5; tickets can be purchased onsite or online.
Getting There: Located in Zürich’s Old Town, near tram lines 4, 6, 10, 15 (Helmhaus/Rathaus stops).
Accessibility: The main church is wheelchair accessible; tower access requires climbing stairs.
Nearby Attractions: Fraumünster Church, Swiss National Museum, Limmatquai promenade.

Enhancing Your Visit

Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages; bookable via the Zürich tourism website or local tour operators.
Special Events: Concerts, exhibitions, and ceremonies throughout the year—check the official site for schedules.
Photography: Allowed in most areas without flash; check signage or ask staff for details.
Travel Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds; comfortable shoes recommended for exploring the Old Town’s cobblestone streets.

FAQ

Are guided tours available?
Yes, in multiple languages.

Can I visit the towers year-round?
Generally open April–October, weather permitting.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes, though the tower climb may not suit very young children.

How long does a visit last?
30–45 minutes for the church; up to 2 hours with tower and tour.

Summary and Practical Tips

Galerie König Büro exemplifies the dynamic spirit of Zürich’s contemporary art scene, supporting emerging Swiss artists and engaging the broader community. Despite temporary closure, its influence continues through digital offerings and ongoing consultancy work. Visitors can anticipate a robust return in a new location, while staying connected online for updates (Galerie König Büro Official Info; König Galerie Sustainability; LinkedIn).

For those interested in Zürich’s historical heritage, the Grossmünster offers a compelling journey into the city’s past, with accessible visitor information and enriching experiences for all.

Enhance your cultural exploration with the Audiala app, which offers personalized guides and up-to-date information on Zürich’s leading galleries and historic sites.