Fabio von Arx
Apartment building on Neubergweg
best architects 24
multi-family homes
Place
Basel, Switzerland
Studio
Photos
Daisuke Hirabayashi
Description
The property is situated on a hill in the municipality
of Therwil in the Leimental region and directly borders the woodland area of
Bruderholz. Apart from its panoramic views, the location is distinguished by
its exposed position within the topography and its immediate proximity to the
forest that borders the property to the north. The surrounding area consists of
a mix of single-family houses, predominantly from the 1950s and 1960s, as well
as newer residential buildings, indicating that the residential zone is
undergoing a transformation. By staggering the volumes, the new building
harmoniously integrates into the landscape while carefully considering the
local building structure and scale. The residential building accommodates four
owner-occupied apartments, which are accessed via a centrally positioned
staircase with half-level offsets. The living spaces are organised in corner
configurations, allowing for expansive sight lines and creating diverse
connections to the outdoor areas. Low balustrades, large openings and wooden
window reveals within the solid two-layer exposed concrete façade emphasise the
connection to the surroundings and provide diverse views from different living
scenarios. A winter garden occupies a prominent position in an exterior corner
and can be generously opened to the outdoor space through three-part sliding
doors, serving as an extension of the living area.