091_Repurposing of Worblentalstrasse 68

The path that crosses the property from north to south and connects Worblentalstrasse with Bahnstrasse separates the public open spaces (the pond and the new play lawn) from the semi-public areas directly connected to the building.


The pond and its biodiversity-rich, fully protected hedge are to be preserved and restored in accordance with current safety regulations; fences are removed. A small pavilion (seasonal or permanent) serving as a refreshment stand allows visitors to enjoy drinks and snacks in the immediate vicinity. The playground, covering an area of more than 600 m2, is surrounded by new trees. A small pavilion also serves as a play equipment area or youth room.

East of the central street that defines the layout of the property are the building and its associated outdoor facilities. The building is part of the Talgut and Hinterer Schermens complexes.


The main entrance to the building is via Worblentalstrasse itself; additional entrances connect to the other hubs, which link the building’s park-like surroundings to the street and to Bahnstrasse. The existing courtyard becomes the main gathering place, reserved exclusively for residents. Play areas beneath the covered ground-floor spaces and a pavilion complement the landscaped courtyard. The existing courtyard is supplemented by additional courtyards on various floors of the building.

A rooftop garden gives residents the opportunity to enjoy the sun on cold winter days. In addition to the rooftop garden, community gardens are available for the residents to use. Here, residents can sow seeds, tend to their plants, and harvest their crops. Irrigated by rainwater collected from the roof, these gardens foster sustainable cycles and provide valuable educational opportunities.

The studio apartments on the ground floor feature private gardens.


The existing tree population is preserved almost in its entirety and significantly expanded in the tree courtyard. The attractive theme of trees and shrubs extends across the lot and offers the opportunity to actively experience the changing seasons. During the hot summer months, the cool shade of the deciduous trees provides inviting places to retreat. The structurally rich green space provides ecologically valuable green infrastructure that serves as stepping stones in the large-scale ecological network. The selection of tree species takes into account the site’s existing conditions and contributes to a beneficial microclimate.


Visitor parking is located on Bahnstrasse, while bicycle parking for visitors is provided in the immediate vicinity of the various stairwells.

Location: Bern, Switzerland
Status: Competition 1st Prize, in progress
Architecture: GWJ Architects