The objective of the renovation project for Stuntz Strasse 16 was to update the existing 1971 building while preserving its original dimensions and character. Using our feasibility study as a basis, we created a new focal point for the neighborhood that honors the Bogenhausen district’s identity.

We planned a series of essential interventions to completely transform the architecture and accommodate all of the building’s occupants in one clear, compact structure. The result is a future-proof office and retail property that meets all of today’s requirements in terms of thermal efficiency and usability. Where there was previously untapped potential in terms of visual impact and floorplan in both the interior and the exterior, we put it to good use for the future. Moving the retail space from the internal arcade to the periphery and bringing all of the retail units together on the ground floor gives the neighbors a place to run essential errands in otherwise underused space. We have closed off the north-south arcade, giving the entrance a more prominent position outside the façade and creating a more attractive as well as accessible property. The large-scale glazing on the ground floor connects the building with the surrounding cityscape, and additional public outdoor space at the site’s northwest corner makes the complex an attractive neighborhood meeting place.

In contrast to its earlier design with alternating stripes of windows and solid spandrel panels, the new façade has generous floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout that provides optimal natural light and nice views for both the offices and the ground-floor retail units. The building has a different visual impact for passers-by depending on their vantage point thanks to the layered effect of the windows, pilaster strips and louvers. It seems open and transparent from the front, more block-like when viewed from a different angle. The green color palette plays an important role in shaping the building’s character, making it an ideal fit for its lush green neighborhood.