Seewurfel : Contemporary Swiss Architecture

'Lake Cubes' : Mixed-Use Regeneration Development, Zurich Luxury apartments + offices project Architect: Camenzind Evolution RIBA World-Wide Award 2005 The eight new apartment and office buildings are situated close to the town centre of Zurich and offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding cityscape. The project regenerates a former industrial site into a new attractive center for working and living and integrates itself harmoniously into the existing historic fabric of the area. The project was awarded the RIBA World-Wide Award 2005 by the Royal Institute of British Architects. The project Seewurfel ("Lake Cubes") is based on a concept of piazzas that were created by the careful positioning of the eight buildings. The individually landscaped piazzas and external spaces create a variety of different environments to be used and enjoyed by the occupants and their neighbors. A system of layering and framing, reflecting that of historic neighboring buildings, was used to create depth and give structure to the facades. Based on these concepts, the plan and size of each building was individually determined by its function, the orientation of windows according to lake views, the external piazzas, and the relationship to the neighboring buildings. To give the buildings their own individuality and unique identity within the Seewurfel development, CamenzindEvolution specifically developed a new silicon-bonded timber-glass-panel cladding system. The strong color and texture of the timber-glass panels, together with the soft, moving reflections on the glass, create a human ambience of lightness and warmth in the piazzas between the buildings. The constant play of light and color, together with the seasonal changes of trees and foliage of the landscaped piazzas, create an all-year-round inspiring environment for tenants, inhabitants and neighbours. The lower three floors of each building contain office space and the upper two floors are used for luxurious maisonette apartments. The architectural principles established by the building’s exterior flow from the outside to the inside, developing a holistic design concept. Flexible and individually usable space has been created around fixed volumes containing bathrooms and utility rooms. The continuity of timber, glass and fair-faced concrete from the exterior to the interior, enhances the play of color, texture and light. This together with the high level of fine and precise detailing and quality workmanship creates a soothing, luxurious living environment. Seewurfel photos from Camenzind Evolution Architecture 040907 Seewurfel architects : Camenzind Evolution New Housing