We are an architectural studio based in Zurich and Brugg/AG, dedicated to the thoughtful renewal of existing buildings.

Whether it’s the extension of a single-family home, the restoration of a historic monument, or the renovation of a rental property – we always regard existing buildings as valuable resources, both ecologically and architecturally.

We see architectural design as a respectful and creative engagement with the existing fabric – driven by our passion, attention to detail, and the ambition to preserve a building's soul.



Current

Layer of Thought

25.06.25

We’ve been working consistently in 3D for years, investing in high-end graphics cards and laser scanners – and getting great results.

But when it comes to actual design, visual exploration, testing one idea after another – there are only two things we reach for: a pencil and a sheet of good old tracing paper.

HAGA Biotherm and Clay Plasterboards

01.04.25

During the renovation of the residential building in the old town of Brugg, we apply 50 mm of HAGA Biotherm to the exterior walls on the interior side. This breathable insulation plaster, based on silicate, improves the U-value of the old rubble stone wall from 1.7 W/m²K to 0.7 W/m²K, significantly enhancing the indoor climate without altering the protected façade.

We cover the separating timber stud walls with clay plasterboards and finish them with a clay plaster. HAGA clay products are free of fired binders and contribute to a pleasant living climate through their excellent moisture regulation.


Building Drainage in Historic Timber Frames

28.01.25

When working with historic buildings, finding a clear route for drainage from a new attic bathroom down to the basement can be tricky. Often, it requires several shifts in direction to avoid running straight into a living room. We map out the best path through the timber frame in 3D using the point cloud of the digital twin. Thanks to this technology, we continue to push new boundaries and are proud of the progress we’ve made.

Inauguration of the Women’s Changing Room at the Grasshopper Club's Rowing Team

05.01.25

At the traditional Christmas Eights Regatta, the rowing section of the Grasshopper Club Zürich inaugurated its new women’s changing room. The installation took place within the listed boathouse at Mythenquai – requiring sensitivity to both heritage and function. The project marks an important step in developing the women’s team, with the aim of being present in future competitions. We designed and executed the new showers and changing areas with future expansion in mind – ensuring they remain in the right place even as the space grows.

At the End of the Year

24.12.24

Every year, Advent reliably reminds us just how quickly time passes. Seven years have already flown by – marked by a wonderful team spirit and our shared passion for architecture. We look back with gratitude. And we’re excited for what’s to come: at the turn of the year, our colleague Gisella will become a new partner in the office.

Construction Begins on Riedmattstrasse, Zurich

02.12.24

Construction has begun on Riedmattstrasse in Zurich Wiedikon. The apartment building is getting a full makeover, with the attic set to become a bright new living space. To counter the low-pitched roof and modest knee wall, we’re opening things up with two generous dormers and a sunken terrace – creating room where there once was constraint.

Old and New: The Charm of Subtle Interventions

20.11.24

The original tiles were long gone – and to be honest, we didn’t find them particularly beautiful. So, everything new? Not quite. It’s these small details that inspire us. How can we make more of what’s already there? We firmly believe that it’s in moments like these that the most exciting work is created. Interventions like this reflect our mission: carefully crafted, a bit playful, pleasantly surprising, and resource-conscious. (By the way, the trick here lies in the changing grout color.)

We Are Mold Experts

06.10.24

In architecture, there are topics that spark excitement – and then there are those that are a little less thrilling. Mold definitely falls into the latter category. However, for our work in existing buildings, understanding it is crucial. Mold and humans don’t get along. Mold needs more moisture than we do and prefers cooler conditions. In a way, it’s an indicator: a physically healthy building simply doesn’t provide an environment for mold to thrive. However, the path from treating symptoms to finding a lasting solution can be a challenging one.

Gisella Chacon deepened our knowledge on the subject through a seminar at TÜV Academy Rheinland and successfully passed the certification exam.

Anouk Zaugg

01.09.24

Anouk has just completed her studies as a draftsman in architecture and received her federal diploma of vocational education and training. She will now support us in the planning process. We congratulate Anouk on her successful qualification and are excited to have her join our team.

ecobau Course - Sustainable Construction

29.08.24

Our colleague Gisella has successfully completed the basic course offered by the ecobau association. Ecobau is very important to us, as the association certifies building materials based on health and ecological criteria, making sustainable planning and construction easier. With user-friendly reference works, checklists, and practical aids, we are able to work more effectively in the field of sustainable architecture.

The course covers the essential requirements – from architectural concept development to parameters for a healthy indoor climate, as well as the selection of ecological materials. We highly value these courses, as they help us align the knowledge we gain in practice with the theoretical foundation and promote valuable exchange.

Fotoshooting

New faces, new photos – today, Nici Jost was once again behind the camera for us. The updated team photos are now online. Assisting with the group shot was Astana, our youngest team member. A warm thank you to both!

Renovate and Expand, or Start from Scratch?

20.06.24

This question can be a real headache: Can we truly unlock the full densification potential through a renovation and extension, an attic conversion, or by adding additional floors — or does the old building stand in its own way? What threshold must be crossed for it to make economic and energy sense to sacrifice the existing structure?

Fascinating questions! Sometimes, the only way forward is to directly compare two concrete scenarios — as we recently did with a single-family house in Zurich-Albisrieden.