For the research of this project, buildings or pieces of buildings where collected that exposed typical characteristics of “Die Altstadt” of Zürich. The angled tower was one of the most prominent architectural elements of the altstadt. The form of the tower in this image was the catalyst for this project. In the GAN image a lot of zurichness characteristics (window, colors, roof) were found, which later influenced the design.
The design is based around two principal elements. The Gan image and the elevation are the starting point. The angled tower creates a relationship between the two sides of the buildings, connecting them through the corner. For the design stage, three principal models of the tower were created: The first model reproduced the GAN image with an Altstadt tower in the angle and holes interpreted from the GAN image. The second model suggests an angled tower; the center of the cylinder marks the end of the ornament. In the third model, the tower expresses the transition between the roofs. For the design strategy, the third model was chosen, because of its intriguing roof shape and ability to connect the surrounding buildings.
The peak of the angled roof accentuates the corner facing the piazza, giving it a special importance. In terms of program, the project combines larger, communal spaces and spacious apartments, which become more private, following the angle of the building. The communal spaces reach up until the second floor, after that, the remaining floors are strictly apartments. The tower becomes a viewing platform as well as a space for reflection, with its narrow light slit illuminating the room from above.