Start Up Yard

Project idea

For more than a century, the Metalli site in Dornach has been an important location for Swiss metal processing. Now it is to be converted for long-term use and given a new lease of life. Within the framework of an existing master plan for the conversion of the Metalli site, the task was to give the site a future-oriented perspective with temporary forms of housing, a further utilisation component and the partial preservation of the industrial charm of old industrial facilities. Basel is located in an economically advantageous position in the border triangle and is therefore known for its cosmopolitanism and international orientation.

Project description

It made sense to revitalise the area's well-connected industrial base, which had been weakened by the global economic crisis, and to develop it into an attractive, mixed-use neighbourhood. The necessary building block of temporary housing was complemented by the building block of temporary and flexible working and rounded off by the preservation of industrial elements. Parallel to the two halls, two new volumes are to be created which, with their modern interpretation of the gabled roofs existing on the site and their complementary facade design, will face each other as two urban diamonds and enter into strong communication with each other through their large air spaces. The Start Up Yard will provide a space for young creatives to work, allowing them to focus on their projects and their vision of tomorrow. The Start Up Yard combines the building blocks of living, staying and working to create a new synergy of creativity, friendship and quality of life, giving visionaries the foundation to start shaping the world of tomorrow.

Technical information

The halls of the former drawing mill on the square site were to be retained in some form. Due to the ageing building fabric, this design proposes a complete gutting and subsequent wrapping in a transparent dress. Adapted modular boxes offer space for culinary variety with a street food character.