The high-rise is designed as a hybrid timber-concrete structure that uses prefabricated elements to reduce construction time. Staircases, basement floors, and ceilings will be built in concrete. The load-bearing pillars and down-stand beams as well as the façade will be constructed using beech elements sourced from local forests and processed in Switzerland. Compared to a conventional structure around 20% or 670 tons of CO2 can be saved across the building’s 60-year life cycle.
Project status: Under construction since July 2022.
The jury particularly admired the remarkable integration of the building within the urban context and the meaningful dialogue it establishes with the surrounding public space.
Holcim Awards 2023 Jury for Europe
The jury appreciated several notable aspects of this residential project. They particularly admired the remarkable integration of the building within the urban context and the meaningful dialogue it establishes with the surrounding public space. The thoughtful material selection was also acknowledged, noting the balanced and harmonious combination of timber structural elements with other materials, such as concrete, clay and trass lime. This deliberate choice showcased a commitment to sustainability while adding to the building’s aesthetic appeal.
The sleek and elegant architecture garnered high praise, as it can serve as a source of inspiration not only for low-tech, residential buildings within the Swiss context but also beyond. Overall, the jury appreciated how the design embodied sophistication and innovation, potentially influencing sustainable architectural practices on a broader scale.
