P008 → ZANDER
2-Stage Competition Entry, 6th Prize Functions: Housing, Offices, Commercial
Location: Pfäffikon, Switzerland
Year: 2026
Co-Authors: ARGE OOO, Soo Young Park, Martyna Michalik
The project proposes the transformation of the former Steinfabrik site into a diverse and vibrant new neighbourhood on the shores of Lake Zurich. Situated between the historic Unterdorf and the nationally protected Frauenwinkel nature reserve, the site occupies a sensitive threshold between urban fabric and landscape. The project seeks to mediate between these contrasting contexts, creating a new identity rooted in the area's industrial heritage while responding to its ecological and social conditions.
At the heart of the proposal is a sequence of interconnected public and private spaces. A central neighbourhood square, framed by mixed-use buildings, forms the social centre of the development. The existing industrial hall is preserved, repositioned and transformed into the SF Park – a green, open structure combining a vertical garden, shaded public space and recreational facilities. From the lively centre, a green park ring extends towards the surrounding residential buildings and gradually merges with the adjacent natural landscape.
A diverse mix of housing, local businesses, cultural spaces and community facilities creates an active and socially inclusive neighbourhood. The architectural volumes are carefully positioned and articulated to preserve views towards the lake, ensure residential privacy and establish a gentle transition towards the protected moorland.
Ecological sensitivity informs the entire design. Permeable surfaces, native vegetation, green roofs, integrated water management and the preservation of existing structural elements contribute to biodiversity and a balanced microclimate. Through the reuse of industrial materials and structures, flexible building typologies and a clear, economical construction system, the project seeks to establish a lasting relationship between architectural quality, environmental responsibility and the evolving needs of the community.
Landscape: Zwahlen Zwahlen + Zwahlen AG
Structure: Büeler Fischli Bauingenieure AG
Building Technology: Waldhauser + Hermann AG
Sustainability: EBP Schweiz AG
Climate & Ecology: Transsolar Energietechnik GmbH
Traffic planning: Rombo GmbH
Fire Safety: Grüner AG
Images: OUT OF RAM