Signs of life…
. Publish by Initiator.
Crowdified!
This project has been successfully funded on 16. October 2022. Thanks to the 178 boosters that made it possible!
Maison Merula
* room to bloom *
Maison Merula
Zürich, CH
Project Overview
Maison Merula is a space that brings together people from all kinds of backgrounds. A space for honest, open exchange and real encounters. Encounters with oneself, with other people and cultures, with art, knowledge and much more. Supported by a non-profit idea: our solidarity-based price system is intended to compensate for social and financial disadvantage and to make the entire programme accessible to everyone.
111%
22.226 CHF
of 20.000 CHF
Crowdified
hurray!
178
Boosters
supported project
Maison Merula is a new kind of meeting place in Zurich, based on a social idea. The solidarity-based price system is intended to enable everyone to do something good for themselves. It is a place to meet and exchange, a gallery, a multicultural meeting room, a space for handicrafts, a yoga shala, a dance floor, a social coffee spot, a sustainable shop and a non-profit association all at the same time. And it's your playground to express yourself freely. Either with your own project, workshop, class or by taking part in various events. Everyone is welcome to get involved in this place, which is as colourful and diverse as our city.
Already now, your help can bring this space to life and give our vision wings. Support our project so that thanks to your contribution we can finance the deposit, rent, furnishings, etc. and get the first activities off the ground.
Already now, your help can bring this space to life and give our vision wings. Support our project so that thanks to your contribution we can finance the deposit, rent, furnishings, etc. and get the first activities off the ground.
Everything is getting faster and faster - and yet we have less and less time. Time for honest, open exchange and real encounters.
That's exactly why we want to create a space that brings people from all walks of life together. Regardless of the colour of their skin, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender definition or financial possibilities. Free of labels. As colourful as Zurich itself.
Maison Merula is intended to be a multifunctional and intercultural space where people can grow and flourish. Designed and brought to life by all those who are looking for more profoundness and interaction. Interactions with oneself, with other people, cultures, art, new knowledge and more.
A place where one's own horizon is expanded, where one comes closer to oneself and to others. For a little magic in everyday life. A room to bloom.
That's exactly why we want to create a space that brings people from all walks of life together. Regardless of the colour of their skin, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender definition or financial possibilities. Free of labels. As colourful as Zurich itself.
Maison Merula is intended to be a multifunctional and intercultural space where people can grow and flourish. Designed and brought to life by all those who are looking for more profoundness and interaction. Interactions with oneself, with other people, cultures, art, new knowledge and more.
A place where one's own horizon is expanded, where one comes closer to oneself and to others. For a little magic in everyday life. A room to bloom.
Maison Merula offers a flexible price system based on solidarity. This is intended to compensate for social and financial disadvantages and to offer everyone the same opportunity to do something good for themselves.
Simply put: if you can afford a little more, you give a little more. This enables someone who has a little less to benefit from the same offer for a little less money.
Even more specific? The standard price in Zurich for a cup of coffee is around 4.50 francs. You are well off, want to drink a nice cup of coffee and do something good for somebody else at the same time? Wonderful; then you might be happy to pay 6 francs into our piggy bank. This in turn makes it possible for someone with modest financial means to enjoy a coffee as well, but only for, let's say, 2 francs. It's a bit like Robin Hood, except that here everyone shares because they want to.
Simply put: if you can afford a little more, you give a little more. This enables someone who has a little less to benefit from the same offer for a little less money.
Even more specific? The standard price in Zurich for a cup of coffee is around 4.50 francs. You are well off, want to drink a nice cup of coffee and do something good for somebody else at the same time? Wonderful; then you might be happy to pay 6 francs into our piggy bank. This in turn makes it possible for someone with modest financial means to enjoy a coffee as well, but only for, let's say, 2 francs. It's a bit like Robin Hood, except that here everyone shares because they want to.
Maison Merula organises and hosts a wide range of its own events, classes, workshops, etc.
However, the space also lives with and through others. If an idea is in line with our core values, you can rent Maison Merula for events and activities of any kind.
The doors are open to anyone who wants to get creatively involved.
You want to organise an info event on sign language, start a singing class for children and grandparents, offer a dance evening, set up your own Qi-Gong group, celebrate a birthday or run a meditation course for people suffering from burnout?
We look forward to expanding Maison Merula together with you and your ideas.
In addition to the wide range of events on the calendar, such as art openings, yoga, cultural exchange, etc., we also offer a huge amount of good vibes, a cosy coffee and reading corner and even a small shop with beautiful, sustainably produced products.
You should feel completely at home here, be able to expand your horizon, grow and thrive.
However, the space also lives with and through others. If an idea is in line with our core values, you can rent Maison Merula for events and activities of any kind.
The doors are open to anyone who wants to get creatively involved.
You want to organise an info event on sign language, start a singing class for children and grandparents, offer a dance evening, set up your own Qi-Gong group, celebrate a birthday or run a meditation course for people suffering from burnout?
We look forward to expanding Maison Merula together with you and your ideas.
In addition to the wide range of events on the calendar, such as art openings, yoga, cultural exchange, etc., we also offer a huge amount of good vibes, a cosy coffee and reading corner and even a small shop with beautiful, sustainably produced products.
You should feel completely at home here, be able to expand your horizon, grow and thrive.
Maison Merula is meant to grow organically and sustainably. Together with all its visitors, all those who bring the space to life. In this way, a wonderful, functioning ecosystem will form over time, which will enrichen the whole neighbourhood and the community.
Here are a few initial ideas for classes and events that we would like to bring to life:
GERMAN IN MOTION
This class is aimed at all those who want to improve their German language skills and at the same time do something for body and mind. Combined with yoga, this class will not only improve your language skills, but also broaden your horizons and your circle of friends.
HOI ZÃœRI
Zurich is a tough place for foreigners. This is why we want to mediate and organise meetings where newcomers can connect with long-time residents and other newly arrived people and exchange contacts. And of course we also answer questions about life in Switzerland – and together we make Zurich a little friendlier.
ENCOUNTER ART
Every few months, different artists exhibit their work at Maison Merula. The exhibition starts with an opening, where you can get in touch with the artists, their work, but also with yourself and others. In addition to the art on display, there are always exciting events taking place.
SLOW DOWN FOR CHILDREN & TEENS
Relax and recharge right after school: we start with breathing exercises and meditations, then stretch, lengthen and strengthen the body and bring it into balance with the mind. Yoga Nidra completes the class. This allows children to completely wind down after a long day at school. Concentration is enhanced, self-confidence boosted and fresh energy carries them through the rest of the day.
Of course we have many more ideas for events and activities of all kinds. So stay tuned for more exciting things to come!
Here are a few initial ideas for classes and events that we would like to bring to life:
GERMAN IN MOTION
This class is aimed at all those who want to improve their German language skills and at the same time do something for body and mind. Combined with yoga, this class will not only improve your language skills, but also broaden your horizons and your circle of friends.
HOI ZÃœRI
Zurich is a tough place for foreigners. This is why we want to mediate and organise meetings where newcomers can connect with long-time residents and other newly arrived people and exchange contacts. And of course we also answer questions about life in Switzerland – and together we make Zurich a little friendlier.
ENCOUNTER ART
Every few months, different artists exhibit their work at Maison Merula. The exhibition starts with an opening, where you can get in touch with the artists, their work, but also with yourself and others. In addition to the art on display, there are always exciting events taking place.
SLOW DOWN FOR CHILDREN & TEENS
Relax and recharge right after school: we start with breathing exercises and meditations, then stretch, lengthen and strengthen the body and bring it into balance with the mind. Yoga Nidra completes the class. This allows children to completely wind down after a long day at school. Concentration is enhanced, self-confidence boosted and fresh energy carries them through the rest of the day.
Of course we have many more ideas for events and activities of all kinds. So stay tuned for more exciting things to come!
AHIMSA
...is a yogic term that stands for love, compassion, non-harming and non-violence. Ahimsa is the cornerstone of our work.
Everything that is offered at Maison Merula is subject to this guiding principle. All products are from sustainable, fair production and all events, classes, activities etc. serve the well-being and empowerment of an individual and/or society.
KARMA
…can stand for various things. On the one hand, it refers to the law of cause and effect (what goes around comes around), but it is also a separate path in yoga. Karma yoga is also called "yoga of action" or "yoga of selfless service". Through service the heart is purified, egoism, hatred, jealousy and arrogance disappear while humility, love, sympathy, tolerance and solidarity develop.
This is also what we build on at Maison Merula. Everyone helps everyone else - this allows us to grow as individuals but also as a community.
For everything that is offered in the café and shop, you pay into a pot on your own. We believe in the good in people and want to create a foundation of trust with the visitors of the Maison Merula right from the start. Of course, this is a risk - and at the same time a small experiment. But one that we are determined to take. We are convinced that generosity and trust will find their way back and bear fruit.
...is a yogic term that stands for love, compassion, non-harming and non-violence. Ahimsa is the cornerstone of our work.
Everything that is offered at Maison Merula is subject to this guiding principle. All products are from sustainable, fair production and all events, classes, activities etc. serve the well-being and empowerment of an individual and/or society.
KARMA
…can stand for various things. On the one hand, it refers to the law of cause and effect (what goes around comes around), but it is also a separate path in yoga. Karma yoga is also called "yoga of action" or "yoga of selfless service". Through service the heart is purified, egoism, hatred, jealousy and arrogance disappear while humility, love, sympathy, tolerance and solidarity develop.
This is also what we build on at Maison Merula. Everyone helps everyone else - this allows us to grow as individuals but also as a community.
For everything that is offered in the café and shop, you pay into a pot on your own. We believe in the good in people and want to create a foundation of trust with the visitors of the Maison Merula right from the start. Of course, this is a risk - and at the same time a small experiment. But one that we are determined to take. We are convinced that generosity and trust will find their way back and bear fruit.
In order to bring our vision to life, we rely on your support. With your contribution you enable Maison Merula to create a space for encounters and growth that promotes diversity and exchange in Zurich. And all this with a strong focus on sustainability and fairness.
With a first part of the amount, possible renovations can be carried out and the most important inventory can be financed. The foundation has been laid and, thanks to your help, we can begin to develop our nest.
Another part of the funding will be used to equip the event area. Tables, chairs, yoga mats, cushions, projectors, good lighting, materials for handicrafts and everything else that is needed to put on a diverse programme.
Thanks to you, the first projects, social actions and innovative ideas can be realised, which will bring us closer together and allow us to celebrate diversity and openness. Readings, cultural exchange, workshops, yoga classes, film evenings, exhibitions - the sky is the limit and we're ready to fly!
Further funds go into a cosy coffee and reading corner and all that is needed for a relaxed get-together before, during and after the activities in our programme (small kitchenette, fridge, coffee machine, kettle, sofa, armchairs, dishes, tasty chocolate etc.). We want to create an area where people feel completely at ease and want to enjoy themselves.
Thanks to further partial funding, we can also offer you super-beautiful, sustainably produced goods in our own shop. We want to support manufacturers who not only make unique and beautiful things, but also share our values of sustainably and fairly produced things. In order for our shop to present the beautiful products in a good light, we will invest part of the money in shelves, displays, lighting and other items.
The targeted amount of money will enable us to start expanding our Blackbird's Nest and slowly fill it with life. The more money we raise, the more diverse, colourful, social, sustainable and affordable our offer can become and the more people can do something good for themselves at Maison Merula.
And who knows - maybe we can raise even more and truly take off?
Help us create a beautiful space full of fair opportunities. A space in which you can bloom freely too.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for being a hero!
With a first part of the amount, possible renovations can be carried out and the most important inventory can be financed. The foundation has been laid and, thanks to your help, we can begin to develop our nest.
Another part of the funding will be used to equip the event area. Tables, chairs, yoga mats, cushions, projectors, good lighting, materials for handicrafts and everything else that is needed to put on a diverse programme.
Thanks to you, the first projects, social actions and innovative ideas can be realised, which will bring us closer together and allow us to celebrate diversity and openness. Readings, cultural exchange, workshops, yoga classes, film evenings, exhibitions - the sky is the limit and we're ready to fly!
Further funds go into a cosy coffee and reading corner and all that is needed for a relaxed get-together before, during and after the activities in our programme (small kitchenette, fridge, coffee machine, kettle, sofa, armchairs, dishes, tasty chocolate etc.). We want to create an area where people feel completely at ease and want to enjoy themselves.
Thanks to further partial funding, we can also offer you super-beautiful, sustainably produced goods in our own shop. We want to support manufacturers who not only make unique and beautiful things, but also share our values of sustainably and fairly produced things. In order for our shop to present the beautiful products in a good light, we will invest part of the money in shelves, displays, lighting and other items.
The targeted amount of money will enable us to start expanding our Blackbird's Nest and slowly fill it with life. The more money we raise, the more diverse, colourful, social, sustainable and affordable our offer can become and the more people can do something good for themselves at Maison Merula.
And who knows - maybe we can raise even more and truly take off?
Help us create a beautiful space full of fair opportunities. A space in which you can bloom freely too.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for being a hero!
'Turdus Merula' is the Latin term for the blackbird. For many years, a family of blackbirds has lived on a tree in the courtyard of Fabienne's flat on Langstrasse. The blackbirds share the tree with two pigeons - and occasionally a few ravens and sparrows come to visit too. The blackbirds' cheerful song is balm for the soul in the middle of busy Kreis 4, and the tree is a symbol that wonderful things can come to life if we are willing to share.
Moreover, in 1068 the Beatles wrote the song "Blackbird" - a song that means a lot to us, with lyrics that touch the soul.
The 'Maison' gives the project a home, a roof over its head, the blackbird and its friends their nest. An oasis in the middle of colourful Zurich.
Moreover, in 1068 the Beatles wrote the song "Blackbird" - a song that means a lot to us, with lyrics that touch the soul.
The 'Maison' gives the project a home, a roof over its head, the blackbird and its friends their nest. An oasis in the middle of colourful Zurich.
Maison Merula
Zürich, CH
The association Maison Merula is striving for more exchange, more real encounters and the compensation of social and financial disadvantages in Zurich. The solidarity-based price system and the wide range of activities are intended to bring people from different backgrounds together and offer them the opportunity to broaden their horizons, grow and bloom.
Fabienne Marcolin
Zürich, CH
Mother Blackbird
Fabienne Marcolin is a creative multi-tasker from Zurich. She has over 17 years of experience in communication, advertising, graphics and film - 10 of them freelancing and partly self-employed. In addition, she has been teaching yoga for several years now.
There is hardly anything that is closer to Fabienne's heart than the well-being of Mother Nature, people and animals. That is why, since 2019, she has also been part of the farming cooperative ortoloco, which runs a farm in Dietikon according to the principles of solidarity farming.
Through her work in film and advertising, she is used to working under pressure, thinking in a holistic way and juggling many balls at once. Fabienne is an enabler and strong at empowering others, creating and maintaining contacts, researching, making connections, leading teams, inspiring.
She is full of ideas - and can turn them into reality. Creativity and organisation paired with a lot of social skills.
After many years of intensive work on other people's projects, she is now burning for more profoundness and to implement something of her own that fully corresponds with her values.
Together with friends, she wants to create a project that is very close to her heart, in which all her talents come together and with which she can make a contribution to society and hopes to make a real difference. Her work should touch people and enable them to grow.
Fabienne is the head and heart of Maison Merula. She is the caring mother blackbird who looks after the nest. Hostess and organiser - always with an open ear for the concerns and needs of her bird family, the team, partners, clients and visitors. She teaches individual classes herself, but otherwise likes to move in the background, keeping the threads together, establishing contacts, brooding over new ideas - and letting them fly together with others.
Senâ Gülkanat
Zürich, CH
Board member
Grüezi - I'm Senâ, 32, and I work as a management consultant in IT. Personally, I feel most comfortable in a culturally and socially mixed potpourri. Why? Because in such an environment the importance of social being-with-each-other and there-for-each-other truly comes to life. I worked for several years as a volunteer in refugee aid offered German lessons. I noticed that there is often a lack of spaces where people can actively mix and network. Maison Merula represents precisely such values that promote a colourful togetherness. With the aim of letting the fictitious borders drawn by people slowly fade away. We would like to create a little more space for solidarity and togetherness and would be very happy if our nest could soon welcome many blackbirds.
Pascal Marcolin
Zürich, CH
Board member
Hello! My name is Pascal, I am 34, a certified social pedagogue and I work as a team leader in a home for children. I started my professional career many years ago with an apprenticeship as a cook - in a home for children. Soon after, I decided to leave the cooking pots behind and work closer with people. Already then I realised how valuable safe and appealing spaces are for an open exchange at eye level. Only those who feel comfortable can develop and grow. Just as important for personal development are encounters with people outside one' s usual environment. The exchange with people from other backgrounds, with other stories and other visions, is enriching in every case. I myself grew up very privileged and the solidarity in our family is great. We want to share some of that. I am therefore happy to support my sister Fabienne in this beautiful project and hope that together we can create a free space in which a lot of good things can arise.
Popular goodies
News
Boosters
A
A
ms
AB
A
Stay up-to-date
Society
