Baugenossenschaft Glattal Zürich (BGZ) is a non-profit housing cooperative established in 1942 in Zurich, Switzerland. Its founding was prompted by acute housing shortages, with the aim of providing healthy and affordable housing for a broad segment of the population. Today, BGZ manages over 2,100 residential units across more than 30 settlements, making it one of the largest cooperatives of its kind in Switzerland.
BGZ’s scope extends beyond Zurich’s city limits to suburban regions such as Stadel, Opfikon, Rümlang, and Bülach. The largest contiguous housing area operated by BGZ is the Schwamendinger Dreieck in Zurich, which comprises around 700 housing units. These developments characteristically feature multifamily buildings and row houses set in green, garden-like surroundings, reflecting a commitment to accessible and community-oriented urban living.
The cooperative consistently renovates or rebuilds older housing stock as buildings reach the end of their life cycle. Notable current projects include the Buchwiesen development in Zurich-Seebach, which involves the phased replacement of an aging settlement with 244 new apartments. The initial 116 units are scheduled for occupation by early 2025, with a second phase providing an additional 128 apartments.
BGZ’s activities center on constructing, managing, and periodically renewing cost-rent housing. Its portfolio is deliberately removed from market speculation, maintaining affordability for families, seniors, disabled persons, and individuals. The cooperative’s governance is overseen by a board currently consisting of 11 members, and BGZ continues to play a significant role in shaping Zurich’s residential landscape.