gus wüstemann architects' low-cost concrete housing block in zurich surburb

gus wüstemann architects has designed a low-cost housing block in zurich made up of concrete monoliths. it was designed by the swiss architecture studio for the baechi foundation which specifically asked for ‘affordable housing with a great quality of living.’

images courtesy of the architects

located in the outer green belt of abisrieden, the structure is surrounded by 1950s housing and generously sized gardens. it consists of nine flats – four 60m2 two-bedroom apartments and five 95m2 three-bedroom apartments.

‘morphologically it is a solid concrete block, organically formed, from which two courtyards were cut out‘, explained gus wüstemann. ‘in these courtyards the living spaces float like bridges, from the morning sun to the evening sun‘.

the concrete block is made up of three graduating volumes connected by a solid exterior. two courtyards intersect the different structures where living areas for each apartment capture the morning and evening sun, leading to wide balconies sheltered by wooden persianas from barcelona.

the swiss baechi foundation, co-owned by isabel and balz baechi, and the locally-based architects set the brief for the project together. natural light, privacy and generous space were the focus, as well as creating apartments that were economic in design. by utilizing smart features like built-in benches and pocket doors integrated into the walls, the apartments offer the cheapest rent in the city.