K.I.S.S. Residential Development: A Unique Approach to Rental Living

Creating Distinct Apartments for the Modern Tenant

K.I.S.S. is a residential development consisting of 46 maisonettes that break away from the traditional white-wall single-story Swiss rental apartments. What sets K.I.S.S. apart is its offering of three distinct apartment typologies – funky, industrial, and classic – allowing tenants to choose a space that suits their unique lifestyle and personality.

Evolution Design has taken a holistic approach to the realization of K.I.S.S., ensuring that it not only meets the needs of its tenants but also prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency. The development has received a Minergie certification and features an ecological heating system that utilizes a geothermal heat pump for heating and cooling. The structure itself has been designed for long-term flexibility, enabling easy interconnection of individual apartments. The facades are insulated with 25 cm of insulation, and a special stucco render with 5 layers creates a shifting color effect. The angled window frames add a sense of movement and create captivating light reflections.

K.I.S.S. spans 8 floors above ground level and includes two floors of underground parking. The total apartment floor area is 4,800 m2, with an additional 700 m2 of commercial space. The development is located in Zurich, Switzerland, a city known for its forward-thinking architecture and design.

One of the key factors that sets K.I.S.S. apart is the extensive research conducted by Evolution Design. By studying the area, its infrastructure, and the typical employees and their income class, the design team was able to classify potential customers into three specific target groups. This knowledge, combined with an understanding of anticipated future changes in society, informed the creation of the three distinct apartment typologies.

Evolution Design faced the challenge of meeting the needs of future tenants while keeping the building costs low to appeal to a younger market segment. To achieve this, readily available technologies and materials were maximally utilized. Exposed concrete, stainless steel, resin flooring, plywood paneling, and bespoke graffiti are just a few elements that contribute to the individual look of each apartment, while remaining affordable materials to use.

K.I.S.S. Residential Development is a testament to Evolution Design's commitment to creating unique and innovative living spaces. By offering distinct apartment typologies and incorporating sustainable design principles, K.I.S.S. provides tenants with the opportunity to express their individuality and create a home that truly reflects their lifestyle.

Image Credits: Peter Wurmli

Awards and Accolades: K.I.S.S. Residential Development was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2016. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. K.I.S.S. contributes to quality of life improvements and makes the world a better place.