Competition - Juchhof 3

Zürich, CH

2022

Project by Behnisch Architekturbuero, Juchhof. Illustration of a sports field with people playing soccer, a low building nearby, and trees in the background under an overcast sky.

The project follows a strategy of “simple building,” focusing on essential needs, clarity, and long-term efficiency. Architecture, structure, and technology are reduced to robust, functional solutions that ensure ease of use and durability.

A compact “back-to-back” layout places climate-sensitive spaces at the core, surrounded by changing rooms with external access, while circulation is organized as covered outdoor space to reduce heated volume and create an open, all-sided building. The single-storey structure ensures direct access, clear orientation, efficient maintenance, and simple compliance with safety standards, while also providing barrier-free use and natural lighting.

The building is conceived as a hybrid structure with a concrete base, masonry in wet areas, and timber elements for walls and roof, combining durability with optimized thermal performance. Its simple, barn-like form with a pitched roof and timber facade relies on proven construction methods and low-maintenance materials. Technical systems are minimized: heating and hot water are electrically supplied and supported by a photovoltaic system, while natural ventilation, skylights, and energy-efficient lighting reduce operational demand.
Overall, the project prioritizes simplicity, resource efficiency, and long-term usability, resulting in a robust, adaptable building with strong ecological and economic performance.