Seestrasse, Erlenbach | Fischer Architekten

This proposal for a housing development near the village core of Erlenbach, which won first prize in a study commission procedure, envisages four buildings that follow the slightly sloping topography. The staggered, slightly swivelled balconies framed by continuous bands determine the external appearance. With their projections, rounded corners, and railings they recall the traditional ships on nearby Lake Zurich.

The site in Erlenbach, on the right-hand bank of Lake Zurich, is part of a disperse green residential district planted with large trees. Through the positioning of the housing blocks the existing sight “corridors” between the rows are preserved and accessible – leading both to the lake and to vineyard that changes its colour with the seasons. In this way the permeability of the existing open development structures is adopted.

Landscapes of different qualities surround the site. There are vineyards on the side facing away from the lake; all the rooms are ventilated in this direction, as Seestrasse is very busy and is therefore at times a source of noise. Open spaces and balconies allow the residents experience both landscape spaces, the lake, and the vineyards.

The staggered, slightly swivelled balconies shape the external appearance of the housing development. Continuous bands articulate the facade horizontally and through their rounded edges “soften” the four buildings. The rooms connected to the sides of the basic form take up the orientation of the balconies.

The simplicity and clarity of the design is reflected also in the structural design and the organisation of the building services. A minimalised staircase holds the residential units together.