Initial situation
The area distinguishes itself through its mix of urban character (urban concept, good traffic connections, leisure and shopping services) and proximity to the open landscape. On plots 19, 20 and 21 at the Riedbachstreet, residences that appeal to different types of housing demands will be realised. Aside from conventional dwellings, serviced apartments are planned for residents that travel a lot. The “Stadtwohnung Bern AG” plans to offer service flats on plot 19. Facilities such as a concierge or laundry service will be offered to the future tenants. The housing cooperative “Aare Bern” intends to build and run a boarding house on plot 20. Those who are searching for a temporary residence with personal atmosphere will find furnished studios or small apartments. Rental apartments that focus on families with children are planned on plots 20 and 21. The proprietors ran a competition according to the SIA order 142, with 26 teams participating.

Concept
LYRA architects from Zurich won the public competition. Their proposal consists of two beam-like structures with an arcade entrance and one block building, which builds a gate situation with the structure on the other side of the street. Overall, 119 rental apartments, studios as well as 1- to 3-bedroom apartments, are proposed.

Realization
In 2012, Nüesch Development was commissioned to organize and manage the competition. As client representative, we are currently supervising the project until full building permission has been obtained.