The Überbauung Bombasei-Areal creates Switzerland’s first straw-bale housing settlement. Designed for intergenerational living, it blends sustainability with social and cultural values. Built with straw, wood, and clay, it ensures eco-friendly, future-proof living.
MEP planning / Energy planning: Klinova AG Zürich CH
Acoustics + Building physics: Studer + Strauss AG St. Gallen CH
Landscape Architecture: Gartist GmbH Bubikon CH
Energy consulting: Fritz Gloor AG Wetzikon CH
Concrete engineer: Brühwiler AG Bauningenieur & Planer Wil CH
Year of construction
2020
Construction method
Straw-Bale Construction with Timber Framework
Building type
Residential development with 22 apartments and 6 houses
Floor area (SIA)
4'921 m2
Volume (SIA)
16'060 m3
The Überbauung Bombasei-Areal in Switzerland pioneers the country’s first straw-bale housing settlement, blending sustainability with social and cultural values. Designed for intergenerational living, it offers a diverse mix of housing for families, couples, seniors, and individuals, fostering a strong community-oriented environment.
Built with straw, wood, clay, and lime, the development prioritizes eco-friendly construction. The natural materials minimize embodied energy, optimize thermal performance, and ensure full recyclability at the end of their lifecycle. The project embraces a holistic sustainability approach, considering not only low-energy operation but also responsible material sourcing and future disposal.
Nestled among mature trees on a former factory site, the settlement redefines urban living by integrating nature, energy efficiency, and shared spaces, setting a new standard for sustainable housing in Switzerland.
