Studio Supernova: Mid-terrace house, Zurich: renovation, modernisation and attic conversion - best architects 24

Studio Supernova

Mid-terrace house, Zurich: renovation, modernisation and attic conversion

best architects 24

renovation and addition

Place

Zurich, Switzerland

Photos

Florian Holzherr

Description

The aim of the conversion and renovation of the mid-terrace house, which was built in Zurich in 1939 with minimal spatial and material requirements and successively changed over the years, was to reflect the characteristics of the residential quarter, to return the house to its structural and material qualities, and at the same time to modernise it for contemporary living while making all spatial reserves usable. From an ecological point of view, the basic structure of the house was to be preserved, as were all the building elements and materials that were still viable. The five-storey structure was transformed into an open spatial fabric with redundant movement possibilities and multiple sight lines. To provide sufficient space for the family, the main living area was relocated from the ground to the garden level. The area formerly designated for secondary use was opened to the street and provided with a second entrance. This level was connected to the first floor through an incised air space. The basement was made directly usable through a new central staircase. The attic was expanded and lit via two skylights, and access was provided by a semi-open partition giving onto a bedroom. The original structural elements worthy of preservation were left in place, partially dismantled, cleaned, and reconstructed. All subsequently added elements and questionable materials were removed and replaced with natural materials in a new, reduced formal language.