Walter - Zürich's Industrial Chic

We had just passed the ultra-trendy Freitag storefront in Zürich’s old industrial quarter when we saw it. Here in what could be called the Anti-Zürich was Walter Vintage Möbel & Accessoires and it caught everyone’s attention. 

Opened by four friends in April, Walter features vintage, typically industrial grade furniture, along with a mix of decorative art and even dishes. It feels like both a shop and gallery all in one, both complementing and contrasting the gritty surroundings. 

Bettina Bucchéri has an eye for the unexpectedly chic

For Bettina Bucchéri, her passion for this Industriechic may be inherited from her Italian father, who grew up in poor conditions and learned very early on how to work with various materials. “Old damaged pieces of furniture were restored, old thrown away objects were repaired and used for purposes other than intended”, she recalls. But, a more recent need turned her to opening a business.

“The idea came up when I wanted to buy a vintage industrial multi-drawer cabinet” says Bettina, “It was a mission impossible to find one of this kind here in Switzerland”. She eventually found what she wanted in France, but saw a void that she believed she could fill in Zürich. “I realized that industrial chic was still a niche in Switzerland. Voilà! The idea was born.”  

Most items come from outside Switzerland, with the exception of items like hand-knitted key holders and linen table mats that are made in-house. Walter will definitely appeal to interior designers and architects, as well as individuals looking for unique items for their home or office. Need something unconventional for your next photo shoot? They'll even rent items.

Travelers might have a tough time finding something they can easily carry home, but this unexpected gem is definitely worth checking out. 

Geroldstrasse 15

8005 Zürich

www.WalterWalter.ch