The transformation of Seestrasse 1 in Zug recognises the unconditional value of every existing structure and focuses on the design of integrative processes rather than prematurely formulated objectives and guiding principles. Moving away from the usual project phases, a non-linear planning process was tested to address complex existing structures. During the initial phase of the controlled demolition of dilapidated and non-load-bearing structural elements, it became clear that the interlocking spatial structure consisted not of one, but of two buildings, four rooms in a third building and a former alleyway that had been built over several times. We have responded to this ambiguous starting point with three projects.
1. Dissection
As part of the first planning application for the phased dismantling, submitted three months after work began, layers were stripped away and the interior and load-bearing structures were exposed. With the aim of ‘finding the house between the ages’, damaged components were removed, temporary protective measures were put in place, and cladding was dismantled, analysed and stored.
2. Repair
The rooms facing the lake featured high-quality Baroque finishes but were at acute risk of collapse; the rear rooms showed signs of wood rot due to poor ventilation and the unfavourable layout of the wet areas. Various structural elements (such as the fire wall separating the property from the neighbouring house or the bracing supporting the roof, which was re-pitched 200 years ago) were completely missing. Specific repairs designed to last 150+ years relieve the existing structure of the need for bracing and secure it for the long term.
3. Adaptation
To enable the effective reprogramming of the house, the structures were supplemented only selectively with lightweight, furniture-like objects and fittings.
Private competition 1st prize
Hase in silver "Hochparterre - Die Besten 2024", nominated to the ARC Award 2025
Published among others in Archithese "Swiss Performance 2025", Hochparterre "12/24" , Zuschnitt "#99"
Architecture: Stefan Wülser + Agnieszka Łatak + Geraldine Burger + Riccardo Simioni + Clemens Krüger
Execution in close cooperation with the heritage conservation and medieval building research department of the city of Zug
Timber construction engineer: IHT
Structural engineer: Basler Hofmann
Building physics: RSP
Building services: Olos
