FACETTE

feat. Nikita Vorozhko

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The existing building offered a number of development opportunities that suggested a well-thought-out redesign. The original project is located in Emmen, Switzerland, and was designed by three offices: “03 Arch.”, “BoA atlaa GmbH” and “Studio Vulkan Landschaftsarchitektur”.

One of the distinguishing features of the original design was its dynamic façade, which consisted of facets that created a striking visual impact. Our redesign was about better aligning the interior apartment floor plans with the geometry of the façade, in order to create a stronger connection between the building's external aesthetics and its interior spaces. As architect Mehmet Konuralp aptly stated, “A façade created out of aesthetic anxiety is indefensible.”

In response, our redesign aimed to improve both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the building. The first major intervention was to reposition the stairwells and elevators, moving them away from the façade and into the interior of the building. This adjustment created additional window space for the apartments, allowing for larger openings and significantly improving the quality of light and views in each unit. To ensure that the stairwells would continue to be supplied with natural light, we installed glass brick walls on the side facing the stairwells. These glass bricks allow light to pass through, but at the same time preserve the privacy of the adjacent balconies, thus creating a balance between openness and seclusion.

The apartments themselves were carefully redesigned to create diversity in both the horizontal and vertical axes, increasing the number of apartment variations in both directions and better aligning them with the geometry of the façade. We created several floor plan configurations, each tailored to different lifestyles and needs, to ensure a variety of living experiences within the same structure. By incorporating these different floor plans, we optimized the livability of the apartments while fostering a more vibrant and inclusive community. Furthermore, the triangular façade design was seamlessly integrated into the interior, so that the exterior aesthetic is a natural extension of the interior spaces.

The ground floor was transformed into a vibrant mixed-use space. By increasing the ceiling height, we created space for two offices, two shops (one of which is designed as an art gallery) and a shared workshop space. This diverse program fosters a sense of activity and interaction at street level. These changes strengthened the building's connection to its surroundings while creating new opportunities for commercial and social engagement. The overall height of the ground floor was carefully calibrated to ensure harmony with the rest of the building.

The roof was also redesigned as a multifunctional space. It features a green roof for urban gardening and a roof terrace for socializing and relaxation. This area is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility and usability for all residents.

Finally, the redesign of the building emphasized modular and repeatable solutions to streamline construction while allowing for flexibility in design. Prefabricated elements were incorporated wherever possible to increase efficiency without sacrificing creativity. The result is a visually appealing, efficient, adaptable and functional building.

Our aim in these measures was to build on the strengths of the original project while introducing well-thought-out improvements. Our redesign combines innovation and practicality, offering an evolution of the original concept that prioritizes diversity, quality of life and aesthetic integrity.