The contractor Karl Steiner AG developed the Sihlcity project together with the architectural firm Theo Hotz. The construction phase lasted from 2003 to 2007. Four buildings remain from the former industrial building complex that are reminiscent of Zurich's industrial history. The old chimney of the former paper mill is particularly eye-catching.
In summer 2018, as part of a planner selection process, five offices were asked to prepare a study on the future prospects of the shopping centre. MACH Architektur was awarded the contract for the redesign and planned several interventions to modernise the mall over a period of two years. In 2021, these measures were implemented.