My Zurich apartment is a solid Swiss event in Japan (landscaping and terraces) and perhaps Palm Springs (angular modernism and lots of concrete). This August I spent five years living under a gravel roof and, on a sunny day like today, I feel very fortunate to see boats crossing the lake, meadows in the distance and snowy peaks. Certainly, that is something I would never take for granted. I am amazed at the view and overall setup that I am here.
In these warm months I also have great respect for architects in the era where many ideas were put into shade and cross ventilation to keep the residential structure cool. My building didn't come with a user guide to handle days above 30°C, but I enjoy figuring out how to keep it comfortable even on the hottest days in the heart of Europe. Air conditioners aren't (for now) here, so you can know when it's just the right moment to adjust the shutter, roll the blinds, roll up, leave the windows closed or take advantage of the cool cross breeze. I think it's 90% of the time I was able to get it right. However, after returning from Lisbon last week, when I arrived late and had too little time to make the necessary adjustments, the uncomfortable nights meant that I didn't even have the damp lids hanging in the city and the gentlest breath of the breeze.
A few days ago, some new adjustments were made to the shutter. A daytime power outage strategy has been implemented. With a slightly limited overall effect, it was decided that the blackout should be lifted, and we ended up rolling up the shutter (may be added manually) and reverting the lights. Some shutters were a bit creaking and uncooperative, but everything returned to all positions except for one stretch that crossed the front of the apartment. For some reason, this roller shutter was particularly grumpy and didn't want to slip into a fully engineered pocket. It clearly enjoyed the sun, the scenery, and freedom to stretch rather than cramp. Eventually it was a surgery for three people, but despite many cranking, shaking and pulling, it wasn't upset. What shall we do? It was almost dinner time so we decided to enjoy the open soaking sun and a local white bottle. “I think this is something that's from the morning,” I announced. “I'll call the manufacturer and get it fixed.”
At the bottom of the frame, I found the manufacturer's name and took a photo. What was this tomorrow? Do they say the system was not produced and no longer worthy of call, or would they say it was already summer vacation? Or will they take action to repair their damaged products? As I was thinking about these scenarios, I was reminded of a conversation with a former Swiss ambassador about the topics of installing, maintaining and repairing everything from air conditioners to jet engines and roller shutters. “This is a place where skilled workers are suddenly shortages and will be these jobs that cannot be touched by AI,” he explained. “There's too much focus on consulting and big technology, and it's not enough for people who need to build infrastructure to accommodate and support these businesses.” I stared at the clogged shutters and thought about all the other window systems that lack fees and require semi-urgent attention, especially in the summer months.
If there was a 24-hour service of highly trained, exquisitely surrounded and convenient boys, rather than waiting for the company to appear, what if we were able to deal with the issue? In a world where changing a light bulb is too complicated or considered dangerous by many, is this an idea worth pursuing? A new legion of expensive and respected merchants responsible for traveling around the world? A recent daily article in Canada highlights why money makes money to address this practical skill gap. Canada has great infrastructure and housing ambitions (like many other countries), but there is little hope for these projects to bring out home-trained talent, as there is a sudden shortage of teachers in trade schools. Not only will you create a new class of educators, but you will also need a climate where these required skills are perceived as a quick track to a rewarding AI-proof six-figure career.
Will you spend some flashy time on the shores of Lake Zurich this summer? Our handy city guide has everything you need to know.
