Wohnhäuser Kappenbühl, Zurich, 2000—2004, Competition 1st Prize

Four stones in the grass

Four individual buildings are placed on the slope like large stones, the ground still runs unobstructed between them. The staggered positioning of the buildings creates visual and daylight “corridors” that offer sunlight and attractive views for all the apartments.


The two apartments on the square standard floors are asymmetrically organised and each has different views on three sides. The daytime area with the living room, kitchen and loggia is laid out as an open, flowing space, whereas the night-time area consists of bedrooms as spaces to withdraw to.


In developing the building volume, the principle of subtraction is used, extending to the surface of the negative finery. The grey-brown colour of the render integrates the buildings in its immediate surroundings.

Reference image: Edward Hopper, Office in a small city 1953

Address

Segantinistrasse 72–76, Zürich-Höngg

Client

Migros-Pensionskasse

Commission

Residential buildings

Procedure

Competition 2000, 1st Prize

Planning period

2000–2004

Photography

Walter Mair

Team

Sabine Annen, Lorenzo Giuliani, Christian Hönger, Thomas Nüesch, Nilufar Kahnemouyi, Anita Reich, Benedikt Ronner, Mario Wagen