As much as necessary, as little as possible
In the EM2N competition project for the refurbishing of Zurich Dennlerstrasse housing development, which took second place, the re-use approach is consistently followed, CO₂-emissions are minimized, and resources tied up in the existing buildings are retained. Precise interventions enable a high residential standard to be achieved and create new architectural and urban planning qualities, while also preparing the housing development for a further life cycle. Through partial demolition a strong urban planning figure is developed around a green communal courtyard that connects the site at the interface to the city with the context. Extending the existing buildings and adding floors to them strengthens the block edge, which is completed by precisely positioned new buildings.
