Location and Situation
Müswangen, known as a family-friendly and sociable place, provides a meeting point for people of all ages. Tranquility and rural charm can be found here, qualities that make the building land so sought after. Its convenient location between Zug and Zurich makes this small residential oasis very attractive for newcomers who can relax well after a stressful day at work in the city. Here, they find their way to relaxation, embodying the idea of Seetal = Wohntal (Seetal Valley = Living Valley). This potential is recognized and exploited as responsibly as possible in the new construction project.
The plot is located in the middle of the village zone along the stream and plays a significant role for the village with its rural character. The old barn, which was last used as a workshop, is no longer in use, neither by the farmer nor by the craftsman. The new project plans to demolish the existing building.
 
Initial Situation
In addition to aesthetics and economic viability, determining the architecture serves an important factor: Building changes our environment to create spaces and places that form the backdrop of our lives. A contemporary living culture requires corresponding forward-looking architecture that supports the well-being of the residents. Nature, the environment, local conditions, and people all play a significant role in the creation of new buildings. All these prerequisites shape the project •GREEN TIME•.
The goal is to create living spaces in harmony with nature without compromising it. New living space is being created, characterized by the steep terrain and the stream with generous greenery.
 
Surroundings
The protected, rather intimate surroundings characterized by trees and green spaces complement the concept of a rural character and characterize living in nature. The steep terrain is only partially adapted to the buildings. Thus, places for rest and gathering are created right outside the front door. The existing road, Bachweg, serving as access to neighboring plot 72, will be retained and only expanded in the area of the new underground garage entrance. The underground garage connects both houses A and B, but remains integrated into the slope and is only visible through the ramp. Access is via the village street. Two visitor parking spaces are provided above ground, acting as extensions of Bachweg. Several playground areas support and encourage residents to meet and live together. The retaining walls needed for this purpose are made of rammed concrete so that they are perceived as part of the terrain and the feeling of "living with nature" is maintained. The space between houses A and B is a haven of tranquility, offering privacy for the adjacent rooms. The green zone remains unchanged as a green belt between the cemetery and the new development.
The buildings protrude from the terrain without compromising it. The project harmoniously blends into the surroundings.
 
The Ensemble
The characteristics determined by the development plan for the plot are decisive for the design. Clear and compact features define the three-story residential buildings in the village zone of Müswangen both externally and internally. The newly planned ensemble naturally fits into the traditionally oriented residential area. The two volumes, with their direct presence on the stream promenade, create a village density and identity. The balconies protruding into the volume at houses A and B break down the buildings to the scale of the surrounding structures. The facades are rhythmically structured. The architectural expression of layered tectonics is achieved with simple means: a interplay between windows and plastered walls of uniform grain and color emphasizes the clear structure of the buildings. The balconies also refer to the theme of layering: they break the strictness of the cube and give the facades a plastic depth. This architectural articulation provides high-quality continuation of the living spaces outward, offering plenty of privacy. By adding the mezzanine ground floor, it was made possible for the underground garage to economically extend below the houses and cause fewer interventions in the environment, even during construction. Thus, the sloping terrain is maximally utilized. The two buildings consist of a total of 16 residential units. The centrally located stairwells with lifts form a compact access for barrier-free construction standards. Various types of apartments are developed according to different usage needs. The development offers more than a preferred and quiet location. The apartments meet today's requirements and have a high standard both in terms of living space and interior design.
The two multi-family houses A and B each have eight apartments and share the common underground garage, outdoor parking spaces, utility room, and playgrounds or recreational facilities. House A has six 3.5-room apartments and two 2.5-room apartments. House B has five 3.5-room apartments and three 2.5-room apartments.
 
Materialization
The village character is celebrated through roof forms, windows with traditional shutters, and wooden railings. Solid construction with plastered external insulation shapes the overall appearance of the ensemble. Clay roof tiles are provided in a golden brown color, harmonizing with the ocher-golden hues of the plastered facade. The undersides of the roof construction are stained in natural wood. The balcony railings and shutters are treated equally. The wood-metal windows have an earthy color on the outside, fitting into the overall picture.