Both inside and outside, the renovation was designed to be consistent with the building's historic industrial structure. Occupied by an engineering firm, the ground floor is emblematic of the rest of the building. It offers a complete view of the 450 m² floor space that each of the building's floors represents.
The structure and concrete slabs are visible throughout, bearing witness to the previous use of the premises. The large openings have also been retained, ensuring plenty of natural light on all façades. The aim of restoring the building to its original appearance led the architects to remove the lean-tos and annexes that had been added in the 1960s on three of the façades. This modification freed up the spaces surrounding the building, which were converted into green patios to bring more light into the lower floors.
The demolition of a stairwell on the north façade also made it possible to recreate openings that had been blocked for around fifty years. New windows echo the style and appearance of the existing elements.
Finally, insulated cladding on the interior surfaces of the façade walls enabled the building to comply with current energy standards while retaining its original appearance.
Transformation of an industrial building, 13 urban lofts, office spaces
Frédéric Comby, Ignacio Dahl Rocha, Roberto Kossi Odi, Manuel Perez, Jacques Richter
2009 - 2011 · Suisse, Lausanne · Housing » Grouped
Located in an alleyway in the lively Maupas neighbourhood, surrounded by residential buildings, the building that houses numbers 9, 9A and 11 on Rue du Jura stands out for its simplicity and large windows.
Built in the early 1900s for industrial use, for over a century it was home to the Marsens printing company, renowned among other things for its wine labels. In June 2008, the company moved out and the building was purchased with the aim of creating authentic lofts and commercial space.
