Architecture — Townhouse Aarau

Townhouse Aarau at Laurenzenvorstadt with listed historic facade

Interweaving stories

Over 200 years old, this building preserves a piece of Swiss history: it was built at a time when Aarau aspired to be the Helvetic capital and is part of the rows of stately buildings that were planned for Laurenzenvorstadt street at the time. Its residents, too, have left their mark in the form of structural modifications. The renovation strikes a balance between respect for the history of the building and reorganisation of various elements to meet modern living requirements. The existing structures were laid bare and reinforced, and the infrastructure was renovated. The decorative panelling has been restored to its former glory, expansive views create a sense of distance, and deliberately chosen colours combine to provide a cosy atmosphere.

Townhouse Aarau at Laurenzenvorstadt with listed historic facade
Townhouse Aarau living room and kitchen
Townhouse Aarau window detail with historic decorative panelling
Townhouse Aarau staircase with colored wall
Townhouse Aarau view to the home office separated with room-high sliding doors
Townhouse Aarau hallway viewed from the home office with view
Townhouse Aarau steps to the terrace and view to the Jura mountains
Townhouse Aarau kitchen and living room
Townhouse Aarau view from living room to the kitchen
Townhouse Aarau view from hallway to the master bedroom with decorative panelling
Townhouse Aarau enfilade separated with through room-high sliding doors
Townhouse Aarau studio with kitchen and living room
Townhouse Aarau at Laurenzenvorstadt with garden view

Townhouse Aarau

Conversion and renovation
of a listed 19th-century town house
Laurenzenvorstadt,
5000 Aarau
Realisation 2012—2013
Collaborator Marcel Walker
Construction management Arento AG
Photos Basile Bornand

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