Buying an atelier is a significant decision for anyone looking to take their art and creativity to the next level and invest in their artistic future. An atelier is a space for your ideas and projects, where inspiration can flourish, and art, design, and craft take shape. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, photographer, or designer, having your own atelier gives you the freedom to explore your creativity and follow your artistic vision.

However, acquiring an atelier requires careful consideration and planning. The location is important, especially if you want to make your work accessible to a broader audience. The lighting, layout, and technical equipment should also be thoroughly inspected. Additionally, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with any building regulations or necessary renovations.

Buying a studio in Switzerland

A studio is more than just a workspace: it is a space for ideas and concentrated creativity. Whether as an artist’s studio, a design studio, a practice or a photo studio – studios offer flexible floor plans and often have exceptional ceiling heights. For self-employed people and creative professionals, buying a studio is a good way to secure a permanent location; investors benefit from a clearly defined niche with stable demand in urban locations.

Buying a studio: the most important information at a glance

• Suitable for creative professionals, self-employed individuals, small businesses and showrooms.

• Advantages: versatile use, good lighting, often industrial aesthetics.

• Important: permitted use in accordance with zoning plan, noise and emission regulations.

• Potential return on investment in cities; suburban locations may require longer marketing.

• Option to serve as a combined studio and flat, provided this is permitted under building regulations.

Market overview for studios in Switzerland

Demand is concentrated in urban centres such as Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Bern and Lausanne. The limited availability of space and the conversion of commercial properties into residences increase the attractiveness of studios in good locations. Properties with public transport connections, plenty of daylight, goods lifts or level delivery access are in demand. Prices vary greatly depending on the location, standard of finish and type of ownership (sole ownership or privately owned property within a larger block (STWEG)). Studios are particularly sought-after in mixed-use areas because they provide a space to work and to present finished products.

What costs are involved in buying a studio?

The total price consists of the purchase price and ancillary costs. Notary and land registry fees, transfer tax (varies by canton), fees for mortgage deeds and compulsory building insurance must also be taken into account. Commercial properties may be subject to value-added tax (VAT); clarify whether this is the case at an early stage. There will be ongoing expenses for maintenance, financial reserves, energy and – in the case of privately owned properties within a larger block (STWEG) – contributions to the renovation fund. In terms of financing, banks often classify studios as commercial properties, which can mean a lower loan value and a higher interest margin. You should do a realistic calculation to determine whether the property is affordable for you based on either using it yourself or letting it out at standard market rental rates.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether a studio is right for you

1. Define the intended use: studio, showroom or combined studio and residence.

2. Check the zoning plan and building regulations; clarify any changes of use or permits.

3. Agree on a budget and financing with your bank; secure a deposit and ensure affordability.

4. Assess the property: light, room height, acoustics, access, deliveries, parking.

5. Technical due diligence: condition, pollutants, fire protection, energy, potential renovations required.

6. Clarify legal issues: form of ownership, easements, rental agreements, VAT and tax implications.

7. Evaluate profitability: vacancy risk, target rents, marketability.

Next steps

Start searching for studios to purchase today. With us, you can search for properties by location, floor space, ceiling height and standard of finish. Arrange viewings; request plans, copies of land registry entries and building permits and compare financing offers. This will enable you to take an informed decision quickly.