GEWOBAG, the Gewerkschaftliche Wohn- und Baugenossenschaft Zürich, is a housing cooperative with deep trade union roots, founded in 1943 by members of the SMUV union. Today, GEWOBAG manages approximately 2,050 apartments spread across 15 residential settlements in the city of Zurich, seven surrounding municipalities, and Zernez (Graubünden).
The cooperative prioritizes intergenerational and socially diverse living environments, deliberately mixing age groups and family compositions within its developments. It neither specializes in senior apartments nor in exclusive developments for particular demographics; mixed housing is the rule. Among its signature community features are neighborhood bakeries and cafés in developments like Albisrieden, Höngg, and Schwamendingen, which serve as social gathering points. Other initiatives include communal festivals, excursions, and even maintaining a small vineyard at Höngger Hang for residents.
GEWOBAG’s portfolio combines new and renovated buildings, reflecting an ongoing strategy of long-term investment and renewal. One notable recent project is the Langgrüthof development in Albisrieden, completed between 2020 and 2024, which features 70 apartments around a quiet green courtyard, as well as co-working spaces and a communal room.
The cooperative operates on a cost-rent model, not seeking profit, and encourages residents’ participation in community life. Its founding objective remains: to create healthy, affordable housing while fostering responsibility, solidarity, and good neighborly relations among a diverse urban population.