Cafeteria Kirschgarten, Basel, Switzerland
2008
HHF architects


Images: Tom Bisig, Basel

The project is an integration of a cafeteria into a existing open lobby of a important school building located in the city center of Basel. Ribbons made of wood are put above the existing floor, wall and ceiling. In between the being concrete structure these ribbons reach out to the courtyard, creating a sunscreen and a terrace where people can sit and eat. This gesture links the interior space to the outside and enables a direct access from that courtyard.


Images: Tom Bisig, Basel

On the interior the wood facing traces the existing concrete structure. A glass facade which does almost not appear to the outside works as thermal barrier. With that the outer appearance of the building with its slim columns could be kept as before.


Images: Andri Pol

Being a landmarked building, designed by the famous swiss architect Hans Bernoulli, every intervention had to be reversible. The project reacts to that requirement, the construction of the interior wood facing has only very few connections to the existing structure.


Images: Tom Bisig, Basel - the one on the right shows the building prior to worksl

The colour concept with its different shades of grey was done in collaboration with the swiss artist Gido Wiederkehr.



Swiss Buildings

Project: HHF architects
Artistic Adviser: Gido Wiederkehr
Location: Basel, Schweiz
Programme: cafeteria
Material: wood
Construction: 2006-08
Client: City of Basel


Picture: HHF architects

HHF architects

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Comments / photos for the Cafeteria Kirschgarten Basel Building page welcome: info@e-architect.co.uk

Cafeteria Kirschgarten Basel - page : adrian welch / isabelle lomholt