Cooperative Housing Rebenstrasse, Zürich

As part of a test-study, we have developed an urban development concept for the Bruderwies housing estate on behalf of the Linth-Escher Housing Cooperative. The focus is on high-quality densification of the existing district. This involves not only significantly more high-quality, affordable housing for all, but also new, attractive open spaces, better connections to the surrounding area, sustainable mobility and additional space for retail and services.

The entry for the architectural competition focuses on the systematic development of the existing buildings – in terms of both structure and typology, as well as the outdoor spaces. The existing terraced buildings will be renovated, raised in height and extended. There will be a second level featuring open pergolas, as well as maisonettes, standard flats, attic flats and small flats. This variety of housing creates a wide range of living options.

To strengthen the connection between open spaces, gardens and buildings, ground-level apartment types are proposed for the ground floor. Smooth transitions between private allotments and communal green spaces encourage interaction and foster neighbourly relations.