Masterplan Transformation Brickworkfactory | 2022

The area surrounding Brauchli Ziegelei AG has undergone partial rezoning, transforming it from a purely industrial and commercial zone into one of the largest contiguous residential and commercial land parcels in the Canton of Thurgau. The development aims to establish a sustainable future for the site through a conceptual design plan and master plan. This approach also seeks to facilitate the future evolution and transformation of the brickwork factory.

The main building, with its distinctive brick facade, is regarded as a landmark of regional significance. The neoclassical villa and the kiln building have been designated as valuable by the Office for Monument Preservation, while several other auxiliary structures are considered noteworthy. The building complex developed over time in a courtyard-like configuration around the main building, reflecting the ongoing evolution and refinement of production processes. Since 2022, a long-term transformation and strategic realignment of the site have been underway.

The master plan provides an overarching framework for the evaluation of the entire site, with the design plan serving as a component within it. Its primary purpose is to offer a comprehensive perspective on the conceptual design project, illustrating how the project harmonizes with its surroundings and integrates structurally within the municipality. As a streamlined version of the conceptual design plan, the master plan focuses on showcasing the essential design elements.

The 156-year evolution of the brickworks has been consistently structured around an orthogonal grid, which extends from the axis of the main road. All buildings within Brauchli Ziegelei AG have always adhered to this grid. Aligning the future buildings with this grid is therefore a sensible approach from an urban planning standpoint, as it fosters a natural connection between the new structures and the brickworks. The brickworks continues to be the central and defining element of the new site.

The settlement edge responds contextually to its surroundings. To the north, it forms a clear boundary towards the open landscape, defining the village edge of Berg. To the east, it becomes more permeable, transitioning toward the pond. To the south, the stepped volumes create a smooth transition to the neighboring area. To the west, along the main road, the settlement integrates with the existing brickworks, stepping down orthogonally to the road and creating a series of distinct forecourt spaces.

The edge of the settlement responds sensitively to its context. To the north, it establishes a clear boundary with the open landscape, marking the edge of the village of Berg. To the east, it becomes more permeable, transitioning toward the pond. To the south, the stepped volumes facilitate a seamless transition to the neighboring area. To the west, along the main road, the settlement integrates with the existing brickworks, stepping down in an orthogonal manner to the road and creating a variety of distinct forecourt spaces.

Category:Urban Planning/Landscape ArchitectureLocation:Berg, Thurbau, CHArchitect: Florian Hartmann, SwitzerlandDesign Team: Florian Hartmann, Piero Bühler, Selin SchneiderPhotographer: OLBH GmbH