Oerlikon Gem is located in northern Zurich, adjacent to the architectural department of ETH Zürich, the centre of the past industrial zone. Conceptualised in direct dialogue with the recently completed Neu Oerlikon building, both projects are a celebration of the area’s strong and rich identity coming from its glory years of the 19th century when it was a primordial industrial and trade hub.

The L shape housing block of 110 units complete this urban fabric and offers its users an elevated public plaza in the middle of the plot. The two buildings form an ensemble and follow the same rules of “composition” though both keeping true to their own identity. On the ground level, a green belt surrounds the building and the plaza. Each loggia benefiting from its own integrated planter and users also welcome to take advantage of the generous community garden space overlooks the site.

With its perforated and metallic facade, the new housing building propose a contemporary interpretation of industrial heritage.