Training village . Interlaken

A harmonious blend of functionality and nature

Constructed as a replacement for demolished buildings, the Training Village for border guards and blue light organizations emerges on the former Interlaken airfield. This innovative project, designed by Holzhausen Zweifel Architekten, consists of ten unheated wooden barracks, a paved square, and essential access routes, all conceived to mimic a naturally grown village within its environment.

The architectural approach embraces simplicity, with each building adopting a designated typology that allows for a variety of spatial experiences. The barracks are constructed from straightforward wooden elements, featuring facades composed of horizontal planking and three-layer panels. The untreated softwood facades harmonize with the surrounding landscape, while the pitched roofs are adorned with durable fiber cement corrugated sheets.

The design incorporates wooden windows fitted with plexiglass panes, ensuring resilience against training ammunition. Additionally, all building openings can be secured with wooden shutters, allowing for flexible use of the space, which can transition from silent to vibrant depending on the activity. The arrangement of new and existing structures fosters a dialogue, creating a cohesive and organically integrated community.

Design Highlights

• Ten unheated wooden barracks designed for training purposes

• Facades featuring untreated softwood and three-layer panels

• Pitched roofs covered with fiber cement corrugated sheets

• Plexiglass windows for durability against training ammunition

• Wooden shutters for blackout capabilities

• A layout that simulates a naturally grown village

Key Facts