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Modular housing for refugees — TWM Erlenmattplatz

Project information

Client: Department of Economic, Social and Environmental Affairs, Basel-Stadt

Industry: Social housing

Type of construction: Modular monolith construction

Implementation period: 4 months

Year of construction: 2019 and 2023

Architect: Lorenzo Guetg

Area (m²): 786 m²

Location: Basel

Implementation in the form of a general contract

The project involved relocating and expanding two modular residential buildings to create living space for 140 people. Both buildings were originally single-story structures. As part of the project, a new floor was added, which effectively increased the usable space and optimized the use of available resources.

Building A was relocated to Basel and expanded by approximately 470 m², while building B was expanded by 239 m². The project also included the modernization of the heating system, the installation of a green roof, and the installation of a solar power plant.

Key features

  • additional living rooms with separate bathrooms
  • shared kitchen
  • work premises for staff, administration, and security services
  • laundry room with several washing areas
  • bicycle storage rooms and warehouses
  • backup technical rooms
  • fire alarm system
  • overvoltage protection

Solar panels, heat pumps, and security systems are installed without damaging the roof layer, using a ballast mounting system that ensures the structure is watertight and durable.

The project demonstrates how modular solutions enable rapid adaptation and expansion of social infrastructure in line with the current needs of the community.