Swica and Steiner plan superstructure in Aarau
In the Scheibenschachen district of Aarau, Swica and Steiner AG want to build a mixed-use development. The study contract has now been decided.
The winner of the study commission carried out by Swica and Steiner AG for the Küttigerstrasse development site north of Aarau's old town is the "Wohnen am Weinbergplatz" project by Atelier M Architekten. It envisages four new buildings with 70 rental and owner-occupied apartments on the site, which covers a total of 4,000 square meters. Commercial uses are planned at street level, and the historic "Kreuz" building at Küttigerstrasse 16, which is worth preserving, is to be integrated into the development.
In the view of the assessment panel, the commercial component, which is also intended to offer improved shopping facilities for the neighborhood, is planned in a functional and highly visible manner. The integration of the house "Kreuz" succeeds "in an appropriately respectful manner": The historic building forms a concise urban face in interaction with the façade of the new development and enhances the square area "Weinbergkreisel".
According to the jury, the decision to combine only four buildings into one urban figure copes well with the high urban density. In terms of open space design, the conceptual approach allows for the establishment of three qualitatively different squares and courtyard spaces. The project succeeded in striking a balance between urban elegance and good marketability.
Steiner now wants to continue planning the project with the Swica healthcare organization in order to submit the building application this fall. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2024, with occupation of the apartments and commercial space starting at the end of 2025. (ah)
