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Architectural Design V - IX: Ballenberg - Living Space for Refugees (S. Vécsey)
Entwurf V - IX: Ballenberg - Wohnraum für Geflüchtete (S. Vécsey)
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:13:58
Abstract
The focus is on transforming vacant, vernacular buildings in Switzerland into accommodation for refugees. In addition to architectural questions of further construction and issues of design and livability, cultural participation in architectural monuments is also a topic of interest.
Objective
1. Develop and elaborate a coherent design for a transformation. 2. Careful examination of vernacular architecture, from the analysis of material origin and processing to typology, construction, and atmosphere. 3. Appropriate handling of the historical building stock (conversion, extension) while integrating contemporary use (accommodation for refugees). 4. Acquiring knowledge on the topic of ‘sustainable accommodation for refugees’. Developing your own visions. 5. Critical examination of today's comfort requirements and construction methods, as well as the development of new proposals. 6. Project-specific, self-explanatory presentation of both the existing building and the transformation in plans, images, and models.
Content
We want to view selected houses in the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum as a rich resource; as models for simple building, sustainable construction, and craftsmanship, and as a source of inspiration for architectural themes that are contemporary because they still concern us today or have become relevant again. These buildings are examples of vacant houses that can be found everywhere in rural Switzerland; old buildings that need to be used to avoid demolition. The houses at Ballenberg had to be moved from their original locations and found refuge at Ballenberg. This semester, we imagine them as a refuge for people who urgently need a roof over their heads and, even more importantly, accommodation. The image of Switzerland that refugees encounter in many communities has little in common with the idealized image of Switzerland presented at Ballenberg. This discrepancy could be eliminated. As it is written in the preamble to the Swiss Federal Constitution: “...the strength of the people is measured by the welfare of the weak.” This is a social responsibility that we want to address with social commitment and design standards, from the initial idea to the final construction.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| exercise | Entwurf V - IX: Ballenberg - Wohnraum für Geflüchtete (S. Vécsey) |
|
16 h weekly |