A revitalized landscape in Dättnau, Winterthur, where architecture and nature coexist, reflecting a legacy of industrial history and sustainable innovation. The Ziegelei Areal project in Dättnau, Winterthur, is a testament to the harmonious integration of architecture with its natural surroundings. Situated on the site of a former brickyard, the development respects the historical and ecological context of the area. The buildings are strategically positioned along the site's edge, parallel to a stream and the forest border, allowing a central meadow to flourish unimpeded. The project comprises two elongated residential blocks, a pavilion, and a series of outdoor spaces that create a seamless transition from common land to garden living, meadows, and forest. The residential buildings, each 80 meters long, serve as the gateway to the development, with dual-aspect apartments offering diverse landscape views. The architecture employs materials such as clay walls, recycled bricks, and steel windows, evoking a post-industrial aesthetic that connects past and future landscapes. The pavilion acts as a community hub, featuring monolithic rammed-earth elements combined with a hybrid steel and timber structure. This innovative approach commitment to ecological sustainability, utilizing materials like trass lime and recycled concrete to minimize environmental impact.

Design Highlights

Integration of architecture with the natural landscape, allowing a meadow to spread freely. Use of sustainable materials such as rammed earth, recycled bricks, and CO₂-enriched concrete. Dual-aspect apartments providing varied landscape views. Pavilion with a hybrid structure and monolithic rammed-earth elements. Ecological innovation in construction methods and material selection.

Key Facts