P1039. Conversion and extension of detached house. Horgen

Living

Dec. 27.

Written by Linda

Details

Focus: Pioneering metamorphosis: Conversion of a detached house into two stylish condominiums
Number: 1039.00
Discipline: Architecture, interior design
Typology: Residential
Service: 3 Project planning, 4 Tendering, 5 Realization
Year: 2020 - 2022
Costs: CHF 1'400'000.00
Location: Einsiedlerstrasse 312, 8810 Horgen, Canton Zurich
Client: Private
Photographer: Studio Gataric Fotografie
Press article: Der Schweizerische Hauseigentümer, House and Living , issue 2024/2025

The project

Nestled between trees and hedges in the municipality of Horgen on Lake Zurich, the detached house from the 1970s provides an environment with plenty of privacy and recreational space: at around 200 square meters, the house is generously proportioned. The project for Raumtakt now consists of converting the single-family home into a two-family home. The family's needs are clearly at the forefront: it used to be a home for two siblings who grew up there, but now they are to live together under one roof in accordance with the latest standards, so that everyone has their own rooms at their disposal. The decision to renovate the house resulted not only from the shared memories and emotional value, but also from the need for sustainability. Raumtakt drew up a comprehensive concept for this, including new windows, no fossil fuels, more environmentally friendly roof insulation and other preparatory work for future interventions. In addition, the building envelope now meets today's energy consumption requirements.

In order to transform the single-family home into a two-family home, two contemporary and sustainable apartments are being built. The space requirements will be adapted to the current needs and circumstances of the residents. In addition, the individual character of the two apartments is made visible through the interior design - and always with future generations in mind. The detached house in Horgen, where the client grew up, was carefully renovated and converted into two modern condominiums. They are designed to create an attractive living experience in a natural environment. The interior design of the two apartments was designed to create a modern and inviting ambience while preserving the original character of the building. Both apartments are generously proportioned and offer enough space for a comfortable living atmosphere. The house is built on half-storey structures and therefore had to comply with the latest sound insulation standards. The upper apartment was accessed via a new external staircase from the north-west side. When redesigning the house, however, it was not only a high demand for contemporary architecture that was decisive, but also the inclusion of the latest standards for energy efficiency and sustainability: a modern air heat pump serves as the primary energy source and the improved insulation of the roof and façade significantly reduces the building's energy consumption. The planning of the conversion also took into account the possibility of installing a photovoltaic system at a later date to make the building even more energy efficient.

Another key aspect of the conversion was the integration of the building into its surroundings: the aim was to create a harmonious connection between architecture and nature. The trees and plants were incorporated into the design of the garden and ensure a pleasant living experience in a natural environment. Overall, the conversion project of the detached house in Horgen is a practical example of how an older building can be modernized to meet the needs of today. The conversion into two modern condominiums, the use of an air source heat pump as the primary energy source, the improvement of the insulation and the preparation for a future installation of a photovoltaic system are measures that make the building energy efficient and sustainable.

What were your reasons for converting or renovating your house?
Built in 1975, our detached house was getting on in years, even though it was well maintained. We wanted to replace the oil heating and windows in particular - and bring all the installations back up to date. We also wanted to divide the property into two apartments.
What were your reasons for converting or renovating your house?
Built in 1975, our detached house was getting on in years, even though it was well maintained. We wanted to replace the oil heating and windows in particular - and bring all the installations back up to date. We also wanted to divide the property into two apartments.
How long did you think about renovating your house before you decided to do it?
All in all, about three years. There were already various scenarios with other building experts before Raumtakt. Demolition and a new build were also discussed.
Why did you choose Raumtakt?
We became aware of Raumtakt on the Internet and saw that the company had already carried out some conversions that we liked.
What made you decide to carry out the project with Raumtakt?
After personal contact in which we expressed our ideas, we quickly agreed that we wanted to carry out the project with Raumtakt. They were the only company that was genuinely interested in a conversion and didn't simply want to build a new building.
What was your first impression after receiving the quote?
We found it expensive, but after completing the work we are convinced that Raumtakt was an excellent choice. This was mainly because of the cost accuracy and, of course, because the conversion was very successful and met our expectations.
What work was carried out as part of the conversion and renovation and how was it implemented?
A complete renovation of the property, new heating, new windows, new electrical and sanitary installations as well as various adaptations to the building according to our wishes (e.g. larger windows, the garage was converted into a room)
How did you experience the process of planning and implementing the renovation?
The planning and implementation process was intensive, as it was only in the course of time that various wishes on our part could be taken into account, according to the respective cost status. Raumtakt provided us with very competent support throughout this time and also reliably managed the construction work during the renovation. In addition, Raumtakt works with excellent craftsmen who carried out the work carefully and on time.
How important was the sustainability aspect to you during the renovation?
Sustainability was very important to us and we replaced the oil heating with a heating system with an air-heat pump and installed new windows, for example. In a further step, solar panels will now also be installed.
Were there any unexpected challenges that you faced during the conversion?
If so, what were they and how did you and Raumtakt solve them? There were situations during the construction phase in which sudden defects arose. Raumtakt always informed us of these promptly and suggested appropriate remedies. Fortunately, there were never any major defects with serious consequences.
How were you kept informed about the progress of the work during the construction project?
As we lived close to the property, we were always able to see for ourselves how the work was progressing. And as mentioned above, we were always kept well informed and up to date by Raumtakt.
How did you find working with Raumtakt and the craftsmen on site who were involved in the renovation?
The collaboration was always professional and pleasant. If there were any disagreements, these were resolved on a constructive and trusting basis. We would particularly like to emphasize the excellent construction management on site and the very reliable craftsmen with whom Raumtakt works.
Were there any cost overruns or delays during the conversion? How was the consultation process?
The cooperation regarding costs was very pleasing and these were kept under control by Raumtakt during the entire renovation. Additional costs caused by extra requests on our part were communicated transparently. There were neither cost overruns nor delays. Overall, Raumtakt carried out this project excellently.
How satisfied are you with the result of the overall renovation? Was there anything you would have done differently in retrospect?
We are very satisfied with the result, except perhaps that we should have tackled the renovation with the room cycle earlier.
How have the changes to the house affected your everyday life and quality of life?
Positive overall, as the quality of living has been improved, e.g. through new underfloor heating, no more steps between the different rooms, larger windows, new appliances, easy-care surfaces. The new feeling of living is positive all round.
Do you have any tips or advice for other homeowners considering a remodel?
We think it's important to realize that a remodel is always a work in progress and that the project continues to evolve even after the planning phase. As a budget was set for our conversion, certain wishes could only be taken into account as the project progressed and this was sometimes difficult to understand in advance
Would you tackle a project like this again? What five valuable tips do you have? What should you pay particular attention to?
A renovation requires perseverance, patience and nerves of steel. We also think it's important to be aware that a renovation is a process that evolves over the course of the project. Trust Raumtakt, they are the experts.
Will you recommend Raumtakt to your friends and acquaintances?
Absolutely, we are very satisfied with the result of the renovation and can highly recommend Raumtakt.