Fischer Architekten AG
High-rise on Birmensdorferstrasse, Zurich
best architects 24
multi-family homes
Place
Zurich, Switzerland
Studio
Photos
Michael Egloff
Description
At the apex of two traffic axes, Fischer Architekten have
realised a small high-rise building. The precise positioning of the volume
transforms an anonymous junction into a memorable urban public space. A carefully
considered range of functions on the ground floor and a wide spectrum of
flexible apartments on the upper floors contribute to achieving the lively
atmosphere that is aimed for at this location. The building transitions from a
broad, polygonal base to a sleek, rectangular shaft. The plinth adeptly
accommodates the site’s geometries, delineating and refining both the street
spaces and the semi-public courtyard situation. A pronounced setback of the
main façade from the building line generates a forecourt, which, in concert
with other surrounding forecourts, weaves a spacious expanse throughout the
bustling traffic. The façade consists of dark green glazed terracotta tiles
specially made for this project. Subtle yet discernible offsets in the
supporting elements characterise the transitions between the plinth, central
area and attic. In the urban context, the dark green colouring accentuates the
yearly change in the colour of the trees that help shape the character of the
place. Seen from afar, the façade offers a nuanced contrast to the chain of
hills of the Uetliberg.