From a 1960s office building to an urban living space in the heart of the city.

TransformationRealisedHousingAdaptive reusePrivate

Under the motto "urban living," the 1960s office building has been converted into compact apartments ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 rooms, as well as lofts. The apartments occupy the five upper floors, lofts are located on the podium level, and commercial spaces are found on the ground floor. The building's structural system, consisting of columns and slabs, was largely invisible until now. After conversion, it is prominently showcased as a defining architectural element—with exposed columns, uncovered walls, and extensively glazed façades. The glazing ratio of the façade varies, as does the level of interior finishes, depending on each apartment's position within the building: the higher the apartment, the larger the glazed area and the more refined the interior fittings. This concept culminates in a shared rooftop terrace equipped with outdoor kitchens, which has become the residents’ key gathering place.

↗ Brückenkopf | Movie
↗ Brückenkopf | Teaser

Location

Bern

Client

Brückenkopf Bern AG

Programme

53 small apartments/lofts of medium to high standard, retail, gastronomy, bicycle rooms, communal laundry, and rooftop garden.

Realization

2015 - 2019 (planning)
2019 - 2021

Distinctions

Auszeichnung Berner Baukultur 2024
Design Educates Awards 2024
Archello Awards 2023
International Architecture Awards 2023
Award für Marketing + Architektur 2023
Architizer A+Awards 2023
Best Architects Award 2023
Arc Award 2022
Real Estate Award 2022