Oliver Brandenberger

Description

Two cubes, each based on a pentagonal plan, rise up as poured concrete tower blocks over Lake Zurich. In this material and form, they look somewhat like boulders, an allusion to the mine located 20 metres below the site. The offset arrangement of the two buildings ensures that all residents can enjoy views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The side facades are optically tapered, making the four storeys appear smaller than they really are. Each building has three full storeys and a penthouse. Inserted terraces, projecting balconies and the set-back penthouse articulate the volume, reduce the building mass and create varying floor plans. A range of different room layouts are possible in the apartments – from open loft to six-room flat. The only load-bearing elements in the interior are the staircase and the block containing the bathrooms. Large picture windows frame the views of the lake and the surrounding area. Special care was taken with the design of the landscaping: beds with shrubs and hedges, lawns and concrete walkways are lined up in neat strips.