In continuation of the previous project, each participant was tasked with designing an architectural folly using salvaged materials. These materials were initially disassembled, recovered, and remanufactured before being transported and reused in the construction of the folly. The project's objective, as in the Deconstruction-Construction phase, was to re-establish a connection between the inner courtyard of a perimeter block on Langstrasse and its surrounding urban environment. This connection aimed to enhance the relationship between the enclosed courtyard and the broader context of the city, offering new spatial experiences. While facilitating this outward connection, the folly was also required to improve the quality of life within the courtyard by fostering interaction and a sense of community among the inhabitants of the perimeter block.

The architectural folly was to be constructed using materials sourced from the base structure of each student’s previous work. In my case, I utilized materials from the Twin Houses developed in the preceding project. Specifically, I repurposed the two chimney pipes from the Twin Houses. One chimney was transformed into a periscope, enabling users to view the surrounding environment from within the courtyard, symbolically linking the enclosed space to the outside world. The second chimney retained its original function, providing a direct reminder of its architectural roots.

These two chimney elements were integrated into the overall structure, which was framed by two recognisable old concrete facades. The facades were cut, rotated, and repurposed to form a new roof, creating a sheltered communal space within the courtyard. Under this roof, the inhabitants could gather, socialize, and observe the external environment through the periscope. The folly thus became both a functional space for community interaction and a visual tool, fostering a renewed dialogue between the courtyard and the Zurich's landscape beyond.


Project carried out as part of the Studio universum carrousel journey of Jan de Vylder at ETHZ.