Wigger Architekten Renovate Multi-Generation Home in Basel

In Basel’s Gundeldingen quarter, Wigger Architeketen have restored a five-storey town house from the 1970s. The overall concept was realized in several building phases: the first step saw the restoration of the façade, windows and balustrades, whereupon the flat roofs were fitted with new insulation and planting. The replacement of the drinking-water heating, connection to the district heating system and insulation of the pitched roof still lie ahead. 

Exposed concrete facade

In the first building phase, the project required particular attention in overhauling the exposed-concrete façade, whose formwork is typical of the era when the house was built. Thanks to the large window area and existing interior insulation, the concrete layer did not have to be hidden behind exterior insulation. The new window division features wood-aluminum frames with triple-glazed panes; the hole pattern in the façade remains the same. As the concrete façade was showing a few chips, the architects had the extensive restoration taken on by a mason, who decided not to carry out cosmetic repairs to the aged façade and patched spots, but rather to authentically recreate the old façade, which was over 50 years old. 

Surface

For the concrete surfaces, the architects chose a glaze of the faceal colour type from PSS Interservice. Depending on the fall of light and angle of view, the glaze takes on a glimmer effect. The concrete glaze is breathable and features an oleo- and hydrophobic function that will protect the façade from weathering and soiling. On the inner sides of the balconies, the ceilings, walls and floors have been treated with a 2K coating in a uniform colour. The colour scheme is harmonious and integrated. JS