Karstlernstrasse 12 / 14, Zurich

In need of renovation, this two-building apartment complex near the Farbhof tram stop in Zurich-Altstetten was renovated and given an additional storey. The renovation work was carried out while occupied, with work on the kitchen/bathroom occurring in alternating weeks. The original 51 units were turned into 48 apartments. This change to the floor plans raised the standard of living considerably, and the addition of a storey added eight new loft apartments with terraces. A new lift makes the building fully accessible. The conversion also included an overhaul of the building envelope’s energy efficiency. In addition to the greater efficiency, this measure also yields lower maintenance costs.