Zürichbergstrasse
At the intersection of a cemetery and a zoo on the outskirts of Zurich, the building responds sensitively to its surroundings and lends the place a distinct identity. With its expansive, polygonal form, it interweaves living space and nature, achieving an independent expression through the unconventional use of a familiar material.
The new apartment building is slightly elevated and set back from the street. Inspired by the concept of a 'house in a garden,' unexpected views and sightlines become key elements of the design and spatial orientation. The building extends into the garden on all sides, blending seamlessly with the surrounding green space. Diagonally projecting balconies create transitional zones between indoor and outdoor areas, structuring the living spaces behind them. The spacing ensures a high degree of privacy while integrating the garden as an essential part of the living experience, functioning as extended garden rooms.
A spatial figure extends from the central staircase into the corners of the building, where the living and dining areas are located. The careful selection and placement of windows provide the apartments with diverse lighting conditions and varied views, while also allowing for flexible furnishing. In section, the building's split-level organization follows the natural slope of the terrain. In total, twelve apartments, ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 rooms, are distributed across three full floors and a roof level.
The building’s exterior is clad in overlapping fiber cement panels, reminiscent of shingled skin, which gives the structure a distinctive character. The gray-green tones subtly reference the adjacent cemetery building while engaging in a dialogue with the surrounding garden landscape. Inside, a pragmatic material palette of painted masonry and exposed concrete contrasts with the romantic setting, providing the space with a sense of raw serenity.
