OOS was commissioned to renovate the historic ‘House Uto’. The ageing housing stock was renovated and additional living space was created by adding a new storey to the roof.
Designed by Fritz Fischer in 1927, the building features architectural elements of Expressionism and Art Deco that are rarely found in Zurich. In collaboration with the heritage conservation authorities and the client, OOS developed a renovation concept for the building. The building has been restored to its former glory and was listed as a protected monument during the planning stage.
Reusing existing materials was part of the renovation plan and also contributes to a more sustainable project implementation. Following appropriate refurbishment, architectural features such as the plain clay tiles and all the doors on the façade and inside the building were thus preserved. For the colour scheme, OOS drew inspiration from the building’s original appearance, in consultation with the heritage conservation authorities.
Along with the ceiling above the fourth floor, the existing attic was stripped back and additional living space was created through a timber roof extension. The new dormer windows blend into the grid pattern of the street-facing façade. On the courtyard side, two floor-to-ceiling dormer windows provide plenty of light and complement the new living space with small, private outdoor areas.
Along with the ceiling above the fourth floor, the existing attic was stripped back and additional living space was created through a timber roof extension. The new dormer windows blend into the grid pattern of the street-facing façade. On the courtyard side, two floor-to-ceiling dormer windows provide plenty of light and complement the new living space with small, private outdoor areas.
