Carlos Martinez Architekten

Rhythm and measure – The initial question for this project was: “how does one build a house for a family with a limited budget?” At the time, it was unusual to orientate the design towards the client’s financial means and ensure that implementation remains within budget. Today, designing to cost is standard.

The Prosa estate comprises 14 semi-detach­ed buildings placed in a horseshoe formation surrounding a communal courtyard. They are characterised by their economical building method. For the purpose of simplification, every building is based on a one-metre grid. Prefabricating the wooden elements made it possible to erect the main structures within only eight days. Wooden firewalls were used for the first time in Switzerland. The uniform building method, the harmoniously measured arrangement and the sweeping volumes with pent roofs achieve a rhythmical architectural language.

All façade apertures are limited to two standard sizes on the entire estate. Inside, the load-bearing exterior walls allow the floors to be freely organised. Only the staircase structures the space and is placed in the same position in every house. The client collaborated with the architects in planning their specific spatial programme and the way all surfaces were used. Actively integrating the owners into the project in this way led to a strong sense of community.

Even today, the Prosa estate impresses with the highest level of individual and living quality in the midst of existing neighbourhood structures.