The Former Wine Storage project in Basel, Switzerland, is a remarkable transformation of a Coop wine storage facility into a vibrant housing complex. Designed by Esch Sintzel Architekten, this innovative project showcases the potential of adaptive reuse in urban development.
The complex features 64 apartments ranging from 1.5 to 7.5 rooms, catering to diverse living needs. The architects preserved the building's distinctive mushroom pillars, integrating them into the new design to create a unique urban layout. These pillars are exposed and staged in various ways, forming the basis for the internal organization of the house.
The project incorporates several communal spaces, including a café, commercial areas, a community room, and a collective roof terrace. Two internal streets, inspired by Le Corbusier's "rues intérieures," run through the building, promoting social interaction among residents.
Sustainability is a key aspect of the development. By reusing the existing structure, 42% of the building's grey energy was conserved. The addition of a photovoltaic system and a groundwater heat pump makes the building two-thirds self-sufficient in energy consumption.
The Former Wine Storage project has garnered significant recognition, winning several awards including the Prix SIA 2024 and the European Collective Housing Award 2024 in the Renovation Category. It stands as a testament to the potential of repurposing industrial buildings for residential use while prioritizing community, sustainability, and innovative design.