Untere Zäune

The Chamhaus on Untere Zäune in Zurich’s Old Town dates back to the late Middle Ages. Two major construction phases remain legible within the building’s interior today: certain elements—such as the representative interior doors and the wall and ceiling paneling—originate from the early 19th century. A second significant intervention occurred in the early 20th century with the introduction of electricity, including the current faux wood grain finishes in the central living space.

The apartment on the second floor required a comprehensive renovation. This involved the renewal of the kitchen and WC, the expansion of the bathroom, new windows, the heritage-sensitive restoration of interior surfaces, upgrades to the building services and plumbing, and the refurbishment of the entire staircase.

The design approach placed emphasis on continuing the building’s high material and artisanal quality. In collaboration with specialized craftsmen from various trades, the existing elements of the listed structure were preserved and carefully restored. All interventions aimed to amplify the spatial and atmospheric character of the building. Rather than drawing a sharp distinction between old and new, the project focused on harmonizing and aligning historic substance with contemporary additions.

Phasing

Realisation | 2007

Client

Swiss Life

Architecture 

HILDEBRAND

Planning

Construction Management | Urs Alpstäg

Key Data

Procedure | Commission
Surface | 225 m² GFA
Budget | 0.7 M CHF