Rychenberg

The smallest possible footprint: The project at Rychenberg in Winterthur is divided into two buildings to preserve the historical structure of the surroundings. One building is located at the bottom of the slope on Rychenbergstrasse, and the other is at the top on Kurlistrasse. Both independently meet all legal requirements. By utilizing the existing underground parking garage, the underground footprint remains small while high-quality living spaces are created.

Topography and access: The site has a height difference of over ten meters. The buildings are seamlessly integrated into the topography, making the slope a design feature. Groups of shrubs stabilize the slope, and sturdy gravel paths provide access to the property.

The green frame: Native trees, valuable shrubs, and blooming lawns create a pleasant climate and privacy. The vegetation provides a habitat for flora and fauna, promotes natural water retention, and supports sustainable planting.

Garden highlight with a view: The Amphigarden, a garden space in the style of an amphitheater, offers seating walls and stair elements. Here, vegetable or flower gardens can be created. Fruit trees provide shade and fruit, and the seating areas offer a wide view.

Garden highlight with a scent aspect: Between the Amphigarden and the playground lies the herb garden with lavender, oregano, rosemary, mint, and sage. It attracts with scents and blooms, offering food for insects.

Garden highlight with freedom of movement: The playground on Bäumliweg is equipped with play equipment such as a slide on the slope and a sandbox. Bicycle parking spaces are available at the beginning of the garden path for visitors and in the underground garage for residents.

Design as a story: Reused steel elements characterize the appearance of the new houses. The facades are designed to incorporate as many reused materials as possible and are kept in a light material mix.

Structural concept: The system uses steel elements and concrete ceilings from demolished halls and settlements. The load-bearing structure is dimensioned in such a way that no additional fire protection is required and consists of a basement box and a lightweight framework made from reused steel beams.

Simple composition: The two residential buildings at Rychenberg have fewer than eight housing units, so not all apartments need to be barrier-free. This allows for long-term flexibility through so-called "switchable rooms" that are not wheelchair accessible.