Fabrikgässli 1
2502 Biel
Biel: Genossenschaftssiedlung Fabrikgässli
A self-managed, car-free cooperative housing estate
Planning and execution
2010–12: Planning
2012–14: Implementation
Architects
Client
Description
In early 2011, the cooperative acquired a 1,536 m² plot of land from the City of Biel/Bienne under building lease. Through a participatory process involving the future residents, the cooperative, in collaboration with the Biel-based architectural practice :mlzd, planned a car-free housing development to the Minergie-P standard. The result is a housing development that had to overcome complex local conditions and translated the requirements for a social and ecological living environment into contemporary architecture. The car-free housing development in Fabrikgässli was completed in the summer of 2014 and has been occupied ever since.
Visits and guided tours
Type of tour: Guided group tours (flats) and self-guided tours (outdoor areas)
Booking: required
Group size: maximum 15 people
Meeting point: Junction of Neuengasse and Fabrikgässli, in front of the communal area
Please note: The site is open for self-guided tours on Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 and on Sunday from 14:00 to 18:00. Flats can only be viewed at the specified tour times and by prior booking.
Photography is permitted only in the outdoor area.
Free visits
Saturday, 10:00-18:00 - outdoor only
Sunday, 14:00-18:00 - outdoor only
Guided Tours
Saturday, 11:00-11:45 - Johannes Weisser, architect and resident
Saturday, 14:00-14:45 - Johannes Weisser, architect and resident
Saturday, 17:00-17:45 - Johannes Weisser, architect and resident
Directions
From Biel railway station, take bus no. 11 to "Amthaus/Préfecture" or walk 8 minutes from the station
Location
Fabrikgässli 1
2502 Biel