The building, a typical apartment complex from the early 1950s made up of two adjoining structures, still in good structural condition, was set for significant renovation and modernisation. Despite periodic updates to bathrooms, kitchens, and windows (1990s), the building no longer meets today’s energy standards. Furthermore, the full rental potential of the property had remained untapped.
Despite periodic updates to bathrooms, kitchens, and windows (1990s), the building no longer meets today’s energy standards. Furthermore, the full rental potential of the property had remained untapped.
In light of current energy policies, rising energy costs, and the property owner's desire to enhance tenant living quality, we embarked on this project. Together with the owner, we defined the following renovation goals:
A key aspect was the addition of a new penthouse level. This required the removal of the old pitched roof and provisional securing of the floors below. The new floor is planned with prefabricated wooden elements to ensure efficient construction and optimal insulation. The new top-floor will house three additional, attractive rooftop apartments – one 2½-room and two 3½-room units.
For improved access to all apartments including the new penthouse apartments, a smart elevator will be installed within the existing stairwell. The exterior walls will be fully insulated with a ventilated Eternit façade. Additionally, the basement ceiling and penthouse terraces will receive comprehensive insulation to minimise heat loss and improve living comfort. New aluminium sliding shutters will now provide a modern appearance and additional protection.
Unser ursprünglicher Plan sah Aufzüge für beide Hausteile vor. Da jedoch das zweite Treppenhaus zu schmal ist und eine bauliche Lösung an der Fassade aus nahbaurechtlichen Gründen nicht möglich ist, mussten wir das Projekt anpassen und auf den Aufzug im zweiten Hausabschnitt verzichten. Eine weitere Herausforderung ist die aktuelle Parksituation, bei der das Verhältnis von bestehenden Parkplätzen zu Wohnungen bereits vor der geplanten Erweiterung unzureichend war. Mit der geplanten Erweiterung verschärfte sich das Problem, was uns dazu veranlasste, aktiv nach Lösungen zu suchen und diese umzusetzen.
We considered an open, partially underground garage with eleven additional parking bays, but this was rejected by the town council. The final solution includes the creation of two new parking sbays on the property, the use of garage spaces in a neighboring building, and a mobility plan with charging stations and parking options for e-cars, bicycles, and scooters.
Below is a quick overview of the construction phases:
This renovation and extension project is a good example of how modern technology, sustainable materials, and a concept can be implemented in an older building. The energy retrofit, combined with forward-thinking land use and elegant architectural adaptation, creates valuable additional living space. At the same time, the property's energy efficiency is significantly improved, and the residents' quality of life is meaningfully enhanced.
Our commitment to this project demonstrates how targeted investments in innovative technologies and sustainable building materials can not only preserve but also significantly enhance a building’s utility and value.
| Area of expertise | Addition / Alteration / Renovation |
| Collaboration | Bötschi Architekturbüro SIA GmbH ADP Baumanagement GmbH |
| Status | preliminary project |
| Year | 2023 /2024 |