The former Gondrand warehouse and logistics building at Uferstrasse 70 in Basel has been transformed by architecture firm Koechlin Schmidt Architekten into a multi-purpose cultural and commercial building, dubbed U70. The aim of this transformation was to preserve the existing structure with as little intervention as possible, according to the principle of "conversion before new construction", and to open it up to a variety of uses, such as sport, culture, catering and commerce. Rigid floor plans were deliberately avoided to offer tenants flexible layout options. The spaces are let at moderate prices and feature a simple layout, with layouts such as mezzanines possible as required.
Sustainability plays a central role in the project: components have been reused wherever possible or installed in such a way as to facilitate their later dismantling. A photovoltaic system was installed on the roof, providing tenants with a renewable energy source. Today, U70 is home to a diverse clientele, including a trendy gym with around 1,300 square meters of rolling space, a padel hall with five courts, a carpentry workshop and cultural and creative businesses. With this conversion, the project creates a vibrant community space in the transforming Klybeck neighborhood, demonstrating how the careful conversion of existing buildings can create new uses and enrich urban life.
