 |
|
In this project we tried to antagonise the homogenous low density building structure of the agglomeration area near Zürich. To achieve this purpose we created a mass concentration, placing the buildings close together, thus generating a strong relation between them and creating unusual vertical spaces between the two buildings which are normally expected in an urban environment. The mass concentration together with the geometry crates a strong identity for the buildings. Furthermore the result of concentrating the masses was the creation of big free spaces, which is an important factor for the older residents, as with age the adjacent recreational areas gain importance.
The break in the sidewalk and the creation of a dense system of walkways leads the public space onto the building site, which we understand as an important part of the project because it is where the interaction amongst the habitants and the passers-by can take place. A curvy Gaudi inspired landscape element connects the special-care home with the long corridor underneath the new buildings.
The continuation of the paths and squares in the building originates from an urban thought. The social interaction was an important element throughout the whole design process. The apartment building in rue Franklin from Auguste Perret and many other apartment buildings in Paris from the same time period served as spatial and atmospheric references. Therefore the entrance hall, the stone floor, the letterboxes and the staircase originate from memories, but are defined in an independent way.
The at first sight fashionable expression of the building derives from the intended functions. The windows are placed on different heights to enable older residents, who are sometimes in bed for long periods of time, to maintain the connection to their surroundings and to watch what is happening in the street even though they are in a lower position. Every apartment has a unique character through the free placement of the windows.
The elevation is intended to create a strong identity. The cladding with conventional roof tiles reinforces the third dimension on the surface and therefore integrates the openings into the massive building body. With time the roof tiles will take on a natural patina, which will serve as ornamentation for the buildings.
As we never had a perfect shape or form in mind, we took the freedom to add one singular cantilevering balcony to one building. It was important for us to break the space between the buildings and therefore strengthen their relation. On the other hand we liked the emotions it generates. The balcony of Julia in Verona served as reference.
If a similar story will occur in the outskirts of Zürich, only time will tell.
Landscape architecture:
Appert Zwahlen, Cham
Structural engineers:
Walt & Galmarini, Zürich
Mechanical engineers:
Ernst Basler und Partner, Zürich