Studio Gugger

Description

The new buildings at Hirtenweg integrate existing conditions – residential scale, natural surroundings, neighbourhood amenities – to create a renewed, densified residential estate. The placement of the four buildings was derived from overlapping setbacks, preservation of significant tree clusters, optimal apartment layouts, a rational circulation typology, the use of existing basements, and the phasing for the intervention. The buildings are set apart from their surroundings by slightly raised ground floors and are accessed by open staircases and arcades. The windows to the arcades allow for more or less openness, depending on the wishes of the inhabitant. The view into the building from the arcades only extends into the first room; the actual living area with its loggia is offset by one axis and is thus secluded. Diagonal sight lines create an impression of spaciousness and an intensive exchange with outside spaces despite the compact floor plans. The façade combines an elegant filigree structure with an economical grid. The columns curve at the top to resemble a capital, which in combination with the strong colour scheme lends the building a distinctive identity. To reduce energy consumption, compact volumes were developed with external unheated access spaces. Balconies and arcades serve not only as living areas but also as passive sun protection. To attain the highest level of sustainability and speed of construction, prefabricated modular timber structures with built-in sound insulation and technical installations were erected on the concrete basements. The concrete staircases brace the buildings.