Haus am Zimmerberg Zürich

The plot has an elongated, narrow shape and borders a cantonal open space to the southeast. From here, the view opens toward the mountains and across upper Lake Zurich. The topography, sloping transversely to the property, is framed at the short edges of the parcel by two access roads. The design of the house is oriented to these topographical and geometrical conditions, creating different spatial qualities for the residents. Open areas for daytime use transition northwest into more intimate, enclosed rooms for private purposes. Structural walls anchor the building volume in the ground, while wide-spanning concrete ceilings appear to float above the terrain. At the entrance, the closed structure seems almost light. The composition of horizontal and vertical elements produces sculptural qualities that captivate the observer and generate a variety of atmospheres. Daylight intensifies these spatial perceptions and continuously lends them new nuances. The gently undulating landscape is preserved and flows around the building.

The sculptural effect and the warm atmosphere inside determine the choice of materials. Raw and untreated materials are used, while colors do not appear as applied surfaces. The neutral approach allows the residents to animate the interior and exterior spaces individually with furniture, objects, and artwork. White concrete with limestone content defines the appearance. Large-format, smooth formwork surfaces give it a marble-like sheen, while on the terraces polished exposed concrete forms a seamless surface, also encompassing the pool. The water within reflects the surroundings by day and glows at night. In interplay with light, the white concrete generates turquoise tones reminiscent of sandy beaches.

The glass façades are framed in natural oak, whose restrained coloration harmonizes with the light concrete. Large areas of glazing open the interior, bringing in light and views. Inside, a cast floor covering is used, matched in color to the terraces. Doors, cupboards, and the kitchen are executed in untreated oak, blending seamlessly into the reduced, clear architecture.

Client: Private

Planning: Rossetti+Wyss Architekten, Ingenieurbüro Hansruedi Schlatter, Bakus Bauphysik & Akustik GmbH

Photos: © Jürg Zimmermann