This Renovation Story showcases “Wohnen im Weinlager,” a project developed by the Habitat Foundation, who stepped in and saved the industrial building from demolition and took on the risk to renovate and transform it. Together with the Swiss office Esch Sintzel, they reused the historic wine storage facility in the center of Basel and transformed it into affordable living spaces.

By preserving key elements such as the robust concrete column structure, the architects kept the building’s industrial charm and history, while adding a new wooden and steel structure that allows flexible floor plans—ensuring the apartments meet the needs of today’s residents. The adaptation process minimized demolition waste and reduced the project’s overall carbon footprint, all at the same cost as a new construction.

This story serves as a role model for cities and developers to undertake the risks often associated with existing buildings, proving that adaptive reuse can create affordable housing while preserving history and resources.

Visit the website of Esch Sintzel
Visit the website of the Habitat Foundation