EINSTEIN
The first place in the competition "Ziegelei in Oberwil"

more to come soon.

https://www.designboom.com/architecture/kohlerstraumann-west-boracay-bungalow-philippines-09-04-2024/

STONE AND SOFTNESS COMBINE IN WEST BORACAY

Swiss architecture studio KOHLERSTRAUMANN has completed a renovation project on the cliffs of West Boracay in Malay, Western Visayas, Philippines. The work involved the conversion an old janitor’s apartment into a sophisticated two-story boutique bungalow, embodying a minimalist design philosophy.

 The entire structure is clad in locally sourced stone, creating a material dialogue between the bungalow and its natural context. The use of stone connects the building to its environment while giving it a quality of solidity and timelessness. The upper floor of the bungalow is designed to appear as if it is floating above the cliff, a feature made possible by hidden structural supports. This design choice enhances the modern aesthetic of the building while maintaining a strong connection to the landscape.

KOHLERSTRAUMANN CURATES PRIVATE BEDROOMS WITH OCEAN VIEWS

Inside the West Boracay bungalow, the architects at Kohlerstraumann continue the stone motif, incorporating custom stone furniture directly into the space. This creates a unified and immersive atmosphere, where the boundaries between architecture and interior design are blurred. To balance the raw texture of the stone, the interior features a pastel color palette, adding warmth and elegance to the living spaces. Large, strategically placed windows are designed to frame select ocean views, turning each one into a living artwork that deepens the connection to the landscape.

 The ground floor of the bungalow features an open-plan living area where stone surfaces and furniture create a unified, serene atmosphere. The space is designed to be a sanctuary of calm, with the stone elements providing a grounding presence that contrasts with the openness of the layout. The middle floor houses private bedrooms, each carefully designed to frame specific views of the ocean. The placement of the windows ensures that each bedroom offers a quiet and intimate setting, where residents can feel connected to the natural beauty of nature outside.

The West Boracay Bungalow is capped by a private rooftop, on which Kohlerstraumann designs a secluded garden. This treetop courtyard is designed in harmony with the natural environment, with minimal landscaping to maintain the focus on the cliffside connection. Native plants are subtly incorporated to enhance the natural beauty without overwhelming it, making the space an isolated retreat.

 Kohlerstraumann’s two-story bungalow on West Boracay Cliff is a modern oasis to punctuate the lush coastal landscape of the Philippines. The careful integration of locally sourced materials, strategic design choices, and thoughtful attention to detail result in a space that offers both luxury and a deep connection to wild nature.
the bungalow is clad in locally sourced stone, creating a connection with the natural environment
a pastel color scheme softens the stone’s raw texture, adding warmth and elegance to the interior inside, custom stone furniture integrates with the architecture, creating a cohesive living space.

COMPETITION
Verwaltung und Sicherheitszentrum Kaltbach

Client: Kanton Schwyz
in Collaboration with Westfourth architecture

COMING SOON

Competition 2023:
China, Shan Dong Sheng, Wei Hai Shi, Ru Shan Shi,
市府大楼 邮政编码

The project takes the form of a captivating art competition situated in Rushan, Weihai, Shandong, China, drawing inspiration from the awe-inspiring Great Wall, the distinctive pagoda roofs, and the timeless allure of ancient mountains veiled in ethereal mist.

Its design unfolds as a dynamic arena, where a seamless walkway gracefully intertwines with the natural landscape, adopting the enchanting form of a slumbering dragon. Within these creative bounds, spaces of tranquility, aesthetic beauty, and harmonious coexistence seamlessly blend with the untouched natural surroundings, resonating with the age-old charm of a meditative, cultured, and wise ancient China.

The success of this artistic endeavor relies not only on the excellence of the showcased creations but equally on the quality of the participants' journeys. The project thrives on the dynamics of movement, the thrill of artistic discovery, and the deliberate use of scenic and theatrical elements, collectively transforming the cultural center into an enchanting destination. Visitors are offered a gratifying and cathartic experience amid the embrace of nature, as they witness the unfolding competition that adds a vibrant and competitive spirit to the rich cultural tapestry of Rushan.

Team:
Aaron Kohler, Marc Straumann
Jindra Pavlista, Esther Alcalde,

text @Designboom

KOHLERSTRAUMANN unveils a contemporary seven-unit ‘hasenrainstrasse’ apartment complex within binningen, a peaceful neighborhood just a short walk from basel. situated on the curve of the hill, the environment offers 180-degree uninterrupted views to the basel cityscape. built in response to the contours and topography, the apartment offers a unique structure that appears lower from street ground level reflecting the neighborhood setting.

the minimalist apartment building is expressed with a unique modern style and an innovative design concept that reflects the low-rise developments in the neighborhood. the architects faced numerous challenges with the site topography, excavation, form, and neighborhood context.

THE TERRACED DWELLINGS OF HASENRAINSTRASSE
integrating the hasenrainstrasse apartments with its surroundings, kohlerstraumann (see more) achieved an understanding of the site’s context. the apartment’s architecture took its cue from the range of local buildings. dominated by adjacent single housing developments, the new apartment seamlessly flows into the character of the neighborhood with its unique form. the architects focused on creating a form that connects with the features of the neighboring structures.

by retaining the context of the surrounding, the structure is carefully blended into the site topography, adjacent structures, and the street. this is evident from its street level illusion appearing as a single storey structure but seen as an apartment from the rear side. the designers shaped a uniquely designed terrace house structure. this design result produced by the architects will astonish the viewers when seen from different site orientations.

DETAILS MATTER
kohlerstraumann’s creative design of the hasenrainstrasse apartment project was fully achievable due to the peculiar interest shown by the neighbours for this exclusive residential project. hence, the designers took advantage of the extra space provided by the neighbors and extended the site. this included demolishing two houses to create a distinct structure of seven apartment units within the space.

to integrate seven units in the space and comply with the local height restrictions and regulations, the biggest challenge faced by the architect was the excavation process. the excavation was key to achieve the desired density and enough space for the seven apartments. the site faced an unusual excavation process. normally, the excavation process begins from the ground floor.

however, this structure was dug down to fifteen meters and all the stories were built up. the holdings were supported with anchors to support the structure. due to this intensive process, the excavation system took nearly five months to complete, mainly for the digging process. this exhaustive process produced a stunning seven residential units in a compact site environment.

the prime characteristic of this apartment design and excavation process provided a distinct space below the ground with almost every floor plate designed below the ground floor. when one walks through the building’s entrance on the ground floor, a staircase is centrally placed to enable easy access to the units on both the right and the left sides. the staircase carries people mainly to the floors located down and up to the attic.

below a couple of floors from the ground level, a stunning garden apartment is uncovered. as one moves down a floor further, a basement floor is found with a functional garage and a car elevator. moreover, while travelling on the stairs, the residents can enjoy incredible views through the glass façade that covers up to the basement floor. the apartment is topped by a rooftop garden that offers spectacular panoramic views of the city of basel.

unlike a typical apartment design with a similar layout, this light-filled seven-unit apartment has varying floorplates. the multiple-unit apartment building offers an expansive space with an intimate feel. the staircase and rooftop garden in the middle allows privacy for two stretches of apartments. although residents live close to each other, the varying orientation of each apartment unit creates maximum privacy.

the modern domestic interior consists of light-colored tones pleasant to the eyes. they create a relaxing space of gentle and soft space arrangement that emphasized comfort and coziness. the harmonious palette of tones creates a positive environment that feels refreshing in the morning and calming at night.

We are thrilled to announce that we have the opportunity to participate as a General Architect for THE LINE in NEOM, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Our involvement extends to the overall architecture across four modules within THE LINE's concealed marina area. Each module is designed to accommodate up to 80,000 people. The envisioned dimensions of 800 meters in length, 500 meters in height, and 200 meters in width provide a canvas to redefine urban thinking.

We look forward to meet the people behind THE LINE in London next week and to the challenges and possibilities that lie ahead.

#theline #neom #saudiarabia #project #architecture #architects #switzerland

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Apartment Building coming soon…..

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Restaurant in Basel | Switzerland

“Raw stone, metal and wood are the key materials for the minimalistic design”

Ingredients Infused: Brewing A Dynamic Confluence.
Design discovers a fresh dimension when cultures, traditions, and contemporary architectural practices interweave. An exquisite style elevates and blends into a mesmerizing presentation of dining space. Such a symbiotic fusion of materials allures the aesthetics and textural emotions of Mirai Ramenclub restaurant in Basel, Switzerland. The crispness dilly-dallying through the restaurant’s volumes evokes aromatic sparks of food, the fine dining, and service attuned to moments of joy, laughter, and a yummy tummy.

“The future belongs to the brave.”

MIRAI means the future, according to the Japanese.
KOHLERSTRAUMANN intended to capture the space as a place to meet, relish and imbibe in a well-prepared and fashionable dining experience. An open kitchen breaks traditional restaurant barriers and invites guests and hosts to chip in, indulge in exuberant moments, and savor their delicacies.

The culinary art of aesthetic modern Japanese kitchen and French cuisine enhances the spirit of the restaurant. Drawing influences from around the world the Ramenclub opens wide, chiseled in black and grey tones. Regional and seasonal ingredients drizzle and sprinkle into cooking and architecture style, tying a close relationship between the chefs and the diners in the space.

The fully furnished ebony interiors with beige wooden geometric frames dancing in the ceiling intrigue a professional attire. The sizzling and twisty ramen noodles, a remarkable platter contrasts with the interior’s striking lines.

KOHLERSTRAUMANN’s bold strokes slashed across every edge of the design delivers a proportionate mark of excellence. The restaurant is described in a rectangular plan with a centralized counter kitchen. As one enters through the glass doors aligned along the central axis, one captures a trivial essence of the whole - the dripping wooden frames to the kitchen, smoke rising from the cooking arena, the black granite counter with bar stools. The crisscrossing frames randomly spaced stand out as a sculptural element. Several sections of the frames direct the diner's gaze towards the kitchen.

A few volumes configure into a space for keeping things and décor items. The diners circulate an L pathway that starts from the entrance doorway. Slashed along the right-wing are the long black sofa seats and granite tables. To the left, a large traditional table presents its space for a group to hang out. The right side spans into the washroom and toilets that inherit the restaurant’s main theme. The design concept works with raw materials such as wood, stone, and metal in a harmonic fusion. The architects and designers created every inch of the interior space, including the table, the bar, and wood design on the ceiling following this perception. The concept also delves into the Japanese Feng Shui (kanso) and preserves the old aura through the flooring and brick wall; restored with an enigma of the past. The restaurant’s transparency is dutifully maintained at all levels- keeping clean, crafted in its appearance and service. An open kitchen plan centered on displaying the cooking methods and style delight the diners walking into this exclusive food hub. The concrete washbasin fits in with the monochrome tones. It sits embellished with a specially stained wooden panel and lit with indirect light from a circular mirror. The combination does invoke the restaurant’s character in etiquette— even the paint on the wall subtly balances the entire restaurant’s coherence. The Mirai Ramenclub has set itself as an icon.

KOHLERSTRAUMANN does incorporate the Japanese and French fusion dexterously. The restaurant ensures to impart its experience and emotion through design and revival of the old. The future does belong to the brave, as the architects have indeed chiseled a jewel from the ancient realm.

Nelkenrain in Oberwil - Switzerland

#projectstudy #research #hotel #tower #basel #switzerland

Our concept for a new landmark - a tower by the river in the heart of Basel.
Taking the shapes of the historical buildings around into his context to create a unique experience inside and out.
The Hotel includes a restaurant, Spa & Gym area and co-working spaces under one spectacular roof.
Form and Function go hand in hand.

Stay tuned…

Coming soon

#renovation coming soon

Duplex in Binningen | Switzerland

Situated in a moderately busy street of a calm neighborhood in Binningen - Switzerland, an exquisite semi-detached house is well integrated into a pleasant environment of single and multi-family houses. The project aimed to integrate two distinct users of double housing into one building. As a result, the form of the building reflects the unique design of two different users accommodated in a single house structure that fulfills the needs of both the users. The house forms a part of a diverse hub of public amenities with schools, commercial shopping facilities, and public transportation located in closer proximity for the users to access conveniently.

Building on terrain is one of the prime challenges faced by the architect while designing this project. To meet the challenge of constructing on existing topographical site conditions and adhering to legal provisions, the building was separated into series of volumes and a split level was integrated into the main part of the building. Accordingly, the volumes created spaces that attained optimum room heights with efficient usage for all spaces within the house inducing interest and character. This solution to the topographic situation of the house offers an innovative design environment with the skilled arrangement of rooms and spaces that meets the needs of the residents.

Among the series of different volumes in the house, the volume of the covered building entrance is located on the single-story volume. The entry of the semi-detached house lies immediately adjacent to the garage. This volume of the entrance structure detaches the main building from the street, thereby offering a private space for the living area. This way the residents enjoy an intimate and cozy living space with a secluded environment from the street. The exposed surfaces of sand-blasted concrete material mainly highlight the functionality of the material by performing as a protective layer for the rooms with its characteristic of thermal protection. The feature reduces the energy use of the house through good insulation and climate shielding properties. This material shelters the rooms and spaces during the months of hot summer temperatures and harsh climatic conditions by positioning to the southern side of the house.

Following the trail of existing terrain, the half-story staircase directs towards the open kitchen and living area which includes large glass openings with a tall and elevated design of the floor producing transparency that brings in light to the interiors. These peculiar design features allow a bright and spacious kitchen and living area that allures residents to a more inviting, enveloping, and multi-dimensional space. Using daylighting to the maximum, the house brings in enough light through glass windows that reduce artificial light use, particularly during the day. The warm dark kitchen cabinets give a strong style statement by contrasting with the luminous space but blending into the rest of the interiors creating an aesthetic atmosphere. The white wall with the dark cabinets is a classic pairing that creates a powerful and well-balanced look. This space integrates the dark and light theme without suppressing either. The open plan layout of the kitchen and living creates a cozy and practical space for both eating and relaxing while providing an extended and open look of the space by maximizing the feeling of space and light. This area opens to a private garden space located on the northern side of the house, providing the residents with natural shade during hot summer conditions. The garden space provides a distinctive relationship between the indoor and outdoor spaces of the house.

The topmost floors contain two bedrooms, a well-lit and airy office space, and a bathroom. Due to the climatic conditions in the south, south-facing glass windows were avoided and therefore, the light penetrates the room primarily from the north and the west side of the building. A further highlight of the house is the comfortable master bedroom with a dressing room located in the attic on two half floors. The bedroom has direct access to the private bathroom which provides the user with a view of the city of Basel. To maximize the space and provide the residents with an environment exposed to sunlight, a terrace was built in the southern part of the house. This private terrace area is covered by a canopy and the wooden boarding of the house on the top floor to maximize the views. This offers the space both as a functional and decorative element in the semi-detached house.

A minimalistic home is a lot more than just modern furniture, and as a matter of fact, it begins with the bones of the space. Hence, a limited choice of building materials such as wood and concrete was chosen to provide a modern and simplistic architectural design that is well-integrated with the building’s concept. The minimalistic materials work together in harmony and offer a beautiful sleek modern look. The airy and well-lit interiors equip the residents with a serene and relaxed home environment. The upright wooden framework offers a distinct volume that anchorages with the terrain and complements the natural touch of grey color. Thus, color choice plays a key part in this minimalistic home. By infusing wood with an accent material of exposed sand-blasted exposed concrete, it provides a stylish, elegant, and calming design that provides a balance in the space. The visual appearance of the house through color and materials enhances the overall appeal of the house. A series of experiences were created within the building with the division of spaces into different volumes due to terrain, with the reveal of the city through large openings and with a natural modernistic look with minimal material use and color palette in the semi-detached house.

Urs August Steiner “S01E08 Exposure”

Together with the Artist Urs August Steiner we transferred one of the most traditional spaces in Basel "Café Spitz" into an art installation.

Meriansaal, Brasserie Spitz Basel, 2021

The specially for the Meriansaal developed and during the Art Basel 2021 accessible room filling installation not only refers to the historic background of the location but also to Steiners long-time research & special interest around the desire for immortality. During a research trip, Steiner visited the Alcor Life Extension Foundation in Scottsdale, Arizona. The institution offers the cryonization of the human body in order to bring it back from cold sleep in the distant future. For the solo exhibition at the Meriansaal, Steiner worked with an old photographic printing process called cyanotype and created a series of prints on watercolour paper. The substrate used, was taken from the last exposed original sandstone wall in the basement of the building from the 19th century and serves as basis and main connection to the history of the location and ever lasting grounds.

With S01E08 Exposure, Urs August Steiner choreographs the assembly and ballroom of Brasserie Spitz with a room-filling installation. Two oversized blue fabric panels are hung across the corner and cover part of the floor-to-ceiling windows. In the center of the hall, a black-and-white checkered circular shape is placed, filled with smoke. The replaced bulbs in the imposing chandeliers bathe the room in cool blue light in the evening. Known by the name "Café Spitz", the town's social center was built from 1838 to 1840 according to plans by architect Amadeus Merian. The building has an eventful history, having been the victim of several fires, extensions and reconstructions, and having changed its name several times.

Urs August Steiner's installations are usually site-specific and fan out a variously linked narrative in space. In his most recent work, he refers to the historical background of the classicist building. At the same time, he pursues his long-standing interest around the desire for immortality. S01E08 Exposure is part of his long-term project "Non Crystal", which deals with transience and infinity, and ultimately probably also with the need not to be forgotten. The dream of eternal life has a long tradition - think of the considerable efforts that were made, for example, in connection with the burial chambers of ancient Egypt. As technology advances, this utopia seems within reach thanks to scientific visions of the future such as cryonics. Known since early science fiction literature, the desire to freeze the body and revive it as needed in the future is being explored in reality by the cryonic movement.

noun: circle; plural noun: circles

a round plane figure whose boundary (the circumference) consists of points equidistant from a fixed point (the centre) Our design features and elements that are suitable to the desert climate and lifestyle, including large walls of concrete and glass that showcase views of the natural landscape and open up to outdoor living spaces and materials that hold up well in the harsh heat and insulate the interiors from warm outdoor temperatures. The Circle as the main concept is a universal symbol with extensive meaning. It represents the notions of totality, wholeness, focus, infinity, unity, timelessness, the Sun, the Moon, the entire Universe.

We created an oasis hiden between the two mountains outside of Riyadh. Using the elevation and carving into the rocks the area of the layout became more privet through difrent levels.

wabi-sabi

Wabi sabi is an ancient aesthetic philosophy rooted in Zen Buddhism, particularly the tea ceremony, a ritual of purity and simplicity in which masters prized bowls that were handmade and irregularly shaped, with uneven glaze, cracks, and a perverse beauty in their deliberate imperfection.

headquarter KOHLERSTRAUMANN

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MFH coming soon

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