Zürcher Ziegeleien AG

Along one of Zurich's major thoroughfares, Badenerstrasse, high-rise residential buildings and perimeter block developments have gradually replaced the formerly open building forms. Despite densification, however, the original character with its high proportion of greenery has been preserved. This is where the Tilia project by Herzog & de Meuron, located in the heart of Altstetten, comes in. The ensemble attempts to achieve an urbanity appropriate to the location through a dense yet open, small-scale ensemble of buildings.

Large and small buildings stand close together, allowing views into and out of the area in all adjacent street spaces. Along Badenerstrasse, the ground floor is intended for public use. It comprises commercial, retail and restaurant space and connects to the lively centre of Altstetten. The upper floors contain 72 differently designed 1.5- to 4.5-room apartments.

The architects at Herzog & de Meuron opted for a light-coloured mineral scratch coat for the façade finish. Instead of an additive composite thermal insulation system, a monolithic wall structure was chosen. The tactile plaster was applied directly to the Porotherm single-shell masonry. The decisive factor in this choice was the high durability of the design, as Porotherm façades remain virtually maintenance-free over a long period of time. The single-shell construction performs load-bearing, protective and thermal insulation functions and contributes to a balanced and comfortable indoor climate.