Renovation/Conversion of a Listed Barn
Dietikon, Switzerland
Competition 2017/2018
Planning 2018–2022
Construction 2022–2024
Zehntenscheune.
Overview
Client
Hochbauabteilung Stadt Dietikon, Switzerland
Architecture
Buol & Zünd Architekten BSA, Basel, Switzerland
Team ZPF
Ayumi Isozaki, Jacqueline Pauli
The «Zehntenscheune», a large barn located in the historic center of Dietikon, was constructed in the mid-18th century and is a protected heritage building. It adjoins a 19th-century building, currently used as a residential house. Typologically, the Zehntenscheune belongs to the series of rural farmhouses known as multipurpose buildings. Functional areas are arranged sequentially, beginning with the residential section, followed by the threshing floor («Tenn») for delivery and passage. The stable is attached to the Tenn on the ground floor, while the upper floors are used for hay and grain storage. The two-story barn follows this layout.
The «Kulturraumkonzept 2016» (cultural space concept) envisioned transforming the Zehntenscheune into a multifunctional venue for cultural events. Existing building sections are repurposed without disrupting the connection to the original structure. The building, composed of rubble stone walls and a timber roof structure, is fundamentally sound but exhibits localised moisture damage. Structural measures aim for a conservative strengthening. The load-bearing framework is preserved as extensively as possible while being upgraded to meet the requirements of new functions. Seismic reinforcement measures are also implemented.
The partition wall shared with the adjacent building is reconstructed and braced with three-layer timber panels. Two historic wooden plank walls, which divided the ground floor into Tenn and stable areas, are retained with new openings and reinforced with additional frames and supports. In the western part of the ground floor, new solid timber walls made from multilayer panels are introduced to carry vertical loads and provide seismic bracing.
The ground floor ceiling is reinforced with multilayer panels (8–20 cm), partially retaining existing wooden beams. A new concrete slab is also installed. A spacious entrance area is created on the ground floor. Characteristic openings are preserved across the full height, remaining visible from the upper floor.
The former Tenn is reinterpreted as a central access space. A new staircase and wheelchair accessible lift provide access to the upper floor and a small gallery. The roof structure is reinforced with collar beams and plates to accommodate the double roof load due to insulation and acoustic measures for the event space. A new full-height wall transforms the Tenn into an independent spatial layer, while a large arched opening connects it to the hall. With the new gallery and a hall with stage, the upper floor is suitable for events of varying sizes.