Kraftwerk1 Heizenholz is an innovative housing project located in Zurich, Switzerland, developed by the Kraftwerk1 housing cooperative. Completed in 2012, it connects two former 1970s residential buildings with a new section, creating a multi-generational living space that accommodates 85 residents in 26 living units.
The project focuses on community living and sustainability. Its centerpiece is the "Terrasse Commune," a shared outdoor space that serves as a communal area for residents. The development includes a range of housing options, from single-room apartments to large cluster apartments, catering to diverse living arrangements and age groups.
Kraftwerk1 Heizenholz emphasizes ecological and energy-efficient measures. It features a photovoltaic system, rainwater collection, and an exhaust-air heat pump. The project also promotes environmentally friendly mobility options and maintains a low average living space per person of 36 square meters, below the Zurich and Swiss average.
The community aspect is central to the project's ethos. Residents organize their communal life through various working groups, maintaining shared spaces and gardens. The development includes common areas like a community room, a shared kitchen, and facilities such as a music room and workshop in the basement, fostering a strong sense of neighborhood and encouraging interaction among residents and with the wider community.