Loft conversion in Zurich combines future and origin: Dornbracht fittings in focus

The conversion of a multi-storey residential loft in Zurich shows how sustainability and design requirements can be combined. Dornbracht’s timeless strategy makes a significant contribution to achieving this maxim: The manufacturer’s concealed products from 2000 remained in place. Instead of replacing them completely, they were fitted with new fittings. In this way, and with impressive precision, the architectural office Huggenbergerfries achieved the demanding balancing act between old and new.

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In order to create the connection between future and origin in the most resource-saving way possible, the architects gave top priority to preserving and making visible the special features of the existing building. Thus, the concrete ceiling and the striking steel girder were exposed. Both elements allude to the charm of the former industrial area in which the flat is located. In addition, as a reminiscence of the former shipbuilding production on site, two bull’s-eye-shaped windows were integrated on the upper floor, allowing a dialogue and new visual relationships between the rooms.

Throughout the loft, contrasts of black and white set special accents. This is particularly evident in the bathrooms: White paint now covers the previously colourful mosaic tiles, making them the perfect backdrop for the Dornbracht fittings used: A MEM in Matte white adorns the bathtub rim and the shower here, while the Matte black variant can be found on the black-grey washbasin. Formally, the series designed by Sieger Design, with its clear language of form and the surface that matches the background, takes a back seat and directs the eye to the water. This impression is reinforced by the precise demarcation between the black-grey furniture and the white surfaces.

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The “Black & White” theme is also reflected in the guest bathroom. Two META fittings in Matte black in the shower with dark grey framing and on the washbasin with white tiles impress here with their clear design language. Other Dornbracht accessories blend seamlessly into the interior and make the room look as if it has been cast from a single mould.

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The kitchen features a TARA ULTRA. The professional single-lever mixer in Brushed Platinum ideally complements the existing Bulthaup kitchen. While the fitting stands for the new, the glass blocks on the back wall of the kitchen recall the industrial character of the surrounding architecture. Old becomes new: The loft conversion in Zurich shows how change measures can be implemented in a resource-friendly way. The project is considered a role model – also thanks to the modularity of the Dornbracht collections and the timeless design strategy.