The loose structure of the row developments near the French border, on the outskirts of the city, provides the foundation for a positive experience of the new immediate environment for the vulnerable residents. The proximity to a border, which is nonetheless permeable, becomes a positive experience for the residents. In this new situation, the concept of a “border” undergoes a transformation—from spatial separation to connotations of curiosity and new experiences. For vulnerable individuals, experiencing their surroundings in this context can become a constructive and enriching encounter. The security aspects of the design align with the conditions of early childhood. Much like children, one can only explore the world independently when one feels stable and secure at home.
Armadillo
Type: Competition
Location: Basel Burgfelderstrasse, Switzerland
Year: 2021
Collaboration: Atelier JHAC
Client: Bau- und Verkehrsdepartement des Kantons Basel-Stadt
Specialist Planners: Jaeger Coneco AG
The outdoor design enhances the duality of the building. On the street side, paving extends to the façade and integrates bicycle parking, reinforcing the urban character. The garden side, by contrast, takes on a more informal identity as a playground and green space. Enclosed by a pergola, this protected outdoor area for the kindergarten features free-growing vegetation, fostering a sense of natural openness.
Reflecting the subtlety of its urban placement, the architectural expression is marked by a sense of restraint and refinement. Tilted façade elements introduce a sense of dynamism and lightness to the volume.
For this particular resident demographic, the emergence of community cannot be left to chance or informality—it requires careful planning. Observing the activities in the surroundings, especially for vulnerable individuals, must not feel imposed or intrusive.
The existing spatial qualities of the neighbourhood are reinforced by the clear and straightforward placement of the project. The volume of the proposed building aligns with the linearity of its immediate context, continuing this rhythm. Its compact massing adheres to the building lines of adjacent structures, creating a calming effect on the streetscape.
The apartments and the first-floor office spaces are oriented towards the street, while the kindergarten on the ground floor is intentionally accessed from the rear garden, maintaining a clear separation between the two functions. In dialogue with the former tram waiting hall, the kindergarten creates a forecourt that serves as a waiting, exchange, and communication space for parents and local residents.
While gallery access would be functionally and economically appropriate, it is not suited to the needs of this community. Instead, the galleries are interrupted and thus privatised. By employing a “four-apartment-per-floor” access system, no circulation space is included within the compact apartment layouts, and the number of direct neighbours is minimised to just one per unit. This reduced number of surrounding apartments makes the residences more individualised and easier to identify with.
The apartment layouts are characterised by compact simplicity. Their east-west orientation provides excellent lighting and cross-ventilation while ensuring maximum privacy towards the southern façade through thoughtful internal organisation.
The design prioritises the appropriateness and dignity of the sensitive residents, using simple yet high-quality materials that convey respect and care.