Perched above the historic centre of Wädenswil, Switzerland, a site once dominated by agriculture is witnessing a thoughtful urban evolution. On this sloping terrain, Buchner Bründler Architekten have realised the residential complex Rötiboden, a compelling response to contemporary needs for communal living without sacrificing individuality or the breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Zurich. The project, driven by a landowner’s vision for a vibrant, high-quality place, translates this ambition into tangible architecture that fosters connection.
The design strategically positions two elongated townhouse volumes slightly rotated to follow the natural contour of the slope. This deliberate rotation creates a significant, sun-drenched gap between them. Enclosed by a retaining wall and leading to a tree-lined square, this gap transforms into the project’s vibrant heart: a communal courtyard. Elevated, level, south-facing, and shielded from the street, this shared courtyard forms the social nucleus of the residential complex.
This central space is far from passive. It is animated by a dedicated community room, a fountain, and two strikingly colorful spiral staircases. These sculptural staircases are more than vertical circulation; they act as dynamic connectors, linking all levels – from the parking garage below, up through the bustling courtyard, and onwards to the expansive rooftop terraces above.
This intricate network actively encourages interaction and lively exchange among residents. Further enhancing the communal spirit are shared northern loggia spaces, adjacent to a preserved orchard. Large staircases on the sides seamlessly link the garden level to the upper terraces, ensuring the entire development fosters spaces for both social interaction and private retreat across its various levels.
Within the two subtly rotated volumes lie eleven residential units, ranging from spacious family homes to compact studios, ensuring a diverse mix of residents. Each unit is cleverly organised over three floors, offering dual aspects. The garden level opens directly onto the meadow via a private loggia.
The courtyard level engages dynamically with the communal heart while also featuring a dramatic, 3.75m-high space capitalising on the stunning lake views through a stepped floor plate. The attic floorprioritises the distant vistas, connecting to a south-facing terrace shared along the row, while north-facing terraces offer private outdoor space. Staggered floorplates interlock the units, creating varied spatial experiences and proportions within a cohesive whole.
Constructed using an in-situ concrete foundation and partition wall system, the structure inherently allows for flexible floor plans. Deep room layouts provide opportunities for retreat within each apartment. High ceiling heights and generous glazing ensure natural light floods the interiors, lending them a distinct, airy, workshop-like character. Mineral surfaces define the primary ambiance, providing a calm, textured backdrop.
Within this restrained shell, color-contrasted modules housing the kitchens, bathrooms, and internal staircases stand freely, injecting bold accents and personality. Glazed windows framed in raw aluminum and wood facilitate generous openings to the diverse outdoor areas. Folding arm awnings and the vibrant spiral staircases punctuate the otherwise simple volumes, culminating in a distinctly lively silhouette against the Wädenswil skyline.
Rötiboden by Buchner Bründler Architekten stands as a sophisticated model for urban densification. It masterfully balances private dwelling with rich communal living opportunities, harnesses an extraordinary site with panoramic views, and achieves a compelling architectural identity through its thoughtful massing, innovative spatial organisation, and expressive material contrasts. It is a place designed not just to live in, but to connect within.