Conversion of the wine press 'Auf Brunnen', Kilchberg
The Trotte was established as a wine-press in the 18th century. It is one of the oldest remaining structures from the 'Auf Brunnen’ settlement. In recent times, the building fell out of use and was largely left empty, thus the municipality published a competition for its refurbishment and conversion.
The 'Auf Brunnen’ settlement was first recorded in 1273 as “Brunnon”. It is one of the last settlement groups to join the village of Kilchberg, located on the slope above the Zürich Lake. This small group of mediaeval farmhouses were predestined for its viticulture. Over time, Auf Brunnen developed from winegrowers to a community centre with cultural and social facilities. During the 19th century, two additional volumes were added to the original Trotte. Subdividing the wine press hall interior into multiple unpleasant rooms.
The Trotte derived its form and layout from the operation of the former wine press. However, this was no longer recognizable. Our response was to revert the wine press hall back to a singular multipurpose space for local cultural events and the extended volumes to be converted to offices to be leased out. The multipurpose hall is connected to outdoor spaces via both south and north entrances, allowing a wide range of events and activities to take place. With a new staircase relocated to the west wing connecting all levels, the southern wing can be converted to a new foyer for the hall.
Like many other buildings in the area, the structure maintained a strong rural character from its past, consisting of timber structure, tiled gable roof, and plastered walls. As well as restoring the Trotte's original spatial character, the project also had to deal with the extensive deterioration of its building fabric. The whole structure was required to be elevated in order to undertake repair and reconstruction on its timberwork and foundation. All facade surfaces were replastered with lime mortar and its exterior timberwork repainted. With its interior extensions cleared out, the Trotte’s original structure was re-exposed and natural light was allowed to fill up its spaces again.
The existing material is complemented with a simple palette of timber, concrete and plaster. Acoustic diffuser panels mirror the exterior half-timber façade. Hints of its viticulture past can be found through the decanter shaped lamps as well as the wicker balustrade, referencing grape baskets. Reconnecting the heritage of the Trotte to its modern community.
