IMMERSE Facilities
Explore our State-of-the-art spaces and technology
The IMMERSE Facilities combine advanced XR technology, high-performance visualization systems, motion capture, and adaptable studio spaces within an environment built for immersive storytelling, research, collaboration, and next-generation digital experiences.
IMMERSE lab
Our Prototyping Lab
The IMMERSE lab at PH Zürich is our dedicated facility for exploring, developing, and prototyping immersive technologies for education and professional training. Opened as part of the Canton of Zürich's Digitalization Initiative (DIZH), our lab brings together expertise from PH Zürich, the University of Zürich, and the ZHAW—spanning pedagogy, visual computing, AI, and applied technology development.
Our lab is open to professionals from both vocational and higher education, functioning as a hands-on workshop environment where ideas can be tested and developed into working prototypes. Through our regular sandbox events, we facilitate structured collaboration between technology and didactics specialists across a wide range of fields—from nursing education and sports didactics to urban planning and geo-immersion.
For organizations looking to develop innovative training solutions, explore human-computer interaction in educational contexts, or collaborate with leading Zurich-based institutions, our lab offers a unique infrastructure and an established interdisciplinary network to help bring your ideas to life. For larger-scale immersive experiences, our IMMERSE theater serves as a natural extension of the lab's work.
Facilitiy Specifications
- 3D projection capabilities
- VR hardware with integrated software support
- Opportunities for AR applications
- Support from the IMMERSE team
- Suitable for small groups (up to 8 people)
IMMERSE theatre
Our Deep Space
The IMMERSE theatre at PH Zurich is our flagship facility for large-scale, shared immersive learning experiences and a one-of-a-kind installation in the Swiss higher education landscape. Developed jointly by PH Zürich, the University of Zurich, and the ZHAW and realised in cooperation with Ars Electronica, the theatre was inaugurated in March 2026.
The space is designed as a prototype for next-generation teaching and learning environments, enabling experiences that go far beyond what traditional formats can offer. It is capable of displaying gigapixel imagery with deep zoom, 360-degree and stereoscopic 3D video, interactive 3D models, and point clouds — all rendered on a high-resolution 3D projection surface with laser-based tracking technology.
The IMMERSE Theatre is open to all interested parties from education, science, and the arts. We actively support our partners in exploring the technology and developing didactically meaningful use cases tailored to their specific needs. Together with the IMMERSE Lab, it forms a complete ecosystem for immersive innovation in education and professional training.
Facilitiy Specifications
- High-resolution 3D projection surface
- Laser-based tracking system
- Gigapixel imagery with Deep Zoom capability
- 2D and 360-degree video playback
- Stereoscopic 3D video
- Interactive 3D models and point clouds
- Capacity approx. 40 participants
Careum Auditorium
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The 3D Lecture Hall
The Careum Auditorium is a modern, centrally located event venue situated in Zurich's university quarter, easily accessible by public transport. Spanning 470 m², it can accommodate up to 500 guests and is designed for a wide range of events, from conferences and seminars to graduation ceremonies and concerts. The hall features a flexible layout that can be divided into multiple configurations, complemented by a spacious 226 m² foyer ideal for receptions and networking.
State-of-the-art audiovisual technology, including a 180° projection system, professional livestreaming capabilities, and dynamic LED lighting, ensures a high-quality experience for both in-person and hybrid events. Supported by a dedicated event team, catering partners, and recognised with multiple Swiss Location Award quality seals, the Careum Auditorium positions itself as one of Switzerland's premier professional event locations.
The hall can be divided into a large (258 m²) and small (207 m²) section, plus a 226 m² foyer for receptions.
Facilitiy Specifications
- Up to 500 persons capacity across 470 m²
- 180° widescreen projection with 9 projectors, supported by fixed and mobile PTZ cameras for hybrid livestreaming
- Fully programmable dynamic lighting, customisable to brand colours
- On-site event team, catering partners, and optional furnishing support
OR-X
The Operating Room X at Balgrist
The OR-X facility is a cutting-edge surgical research and training centrelocated within the Balgrist University Hospital in Zürich. Spanning 1,185m², the facility is designed to support the full spectrum of modern surgical work, from hands-on training to advanced translational research.
At its core are two key spaces: a fully equipped operating room capable of supporting open, arthroscopic, robotic, and computer-assisted procedures and a Skills Lab with up to six surgical workstations for training on human specimens. Both spaces feature medical-grade equipment, high-performance data infrastructure, and seamless integration with the Balgrist Congress Center for live streaming and larger events.
Supporting amenities include a reception area, meeting rooms, changing rooms, and breakout spaces. OR-X positions itself as a world-class environment where surgical innovation, education, and research converge under one roof.
Facilitiy Specifications
Operating Room & Skills Lab
- Total area: 1,185 m²
- Skills Lab with up to 6 surgical workstations
- Modular glass room wall system for realistic OR environment
Meeting & Congress Infrastructure
- Main meeting room: 33 m², seating for 12–24
- Breakout room: 18 m² with couches and workstations
- Balgrist Congress Center: rooms for 8–150 people + auditorium for 145
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