Fbg de l'Hôpital 33/35, 2000 Neuchâtel
Renovation and conversion of a historic building in Neuchâtel
Built in 1937, the building at 33-35-37 Faubourg de l'Hôpital has been completely renovated to improve living comfort, user-friendliness and integration into the cityscape of Neuchâtel. As part of this project, the historic building was renovated and now meets the current needs of tenants and environmental requirements.
Project objectives and description
Before the work began, the building comprised 35 apartments. The aim was to create 49 apartments, including four new ones in the previously unused attic floor. At the same time, the existing areas were to be adapted to the growing demand for modern and more compact apartments. The new apartments offer between 2.5 and 5.5 rooms, most of them with a balcony. The penthouses have terraces and patios integrated into the roof. The entire building offers exceptional views of Neuchâtel and the lake.
Technical and energy-related improvements
The facades were cleaned, repainted and professionally insulated in close collaboration with the monument preservation officers, taking into account the preservation aspects. The building was equipped with underfloor heating supplied by a district heating network (CAD), thus ensuring a high level of energy efficiency. Each apartment has a control panel for heating, blinds and lighting, which allows tenants to better control and optimise their energy consumption. In combination with internal insulation, this concept guarantees compliance with today's energy standards.
Implementation and construction phases
The work was carried out in two stages to minimise disruption for existing tenants. In the first phase, entrances 33 and 35 were renovated, allowing tenants to move back in before work began on entrance 37. The floors were completely gutted down to the basic structures, enabling a complete redesign of the interiors. Extensive security measures were put in place to ensure that tenants and construction activities coexisted as smoothly as possible. Lorries, machinery and deliveries of materials were given a separate access point.
New communal facilities and an attractive residential environment
Tenants now benefit from a new outdoor area, an integrated underground car park and parking spaces for cars and bicycles at the entrance to the building, which were not available before. These additions increase the quality of living and the attractiveness of the location.
Role of Wincasa
Wincasa implemented this project in close collaboration with the owner and the appointed planners. From the early stages, Wincasa provided its technical expertise to support the client in architectural decisions as well as in the selection and coordination of various stakeholders. Thanks to this collaboration, the project was completed on schedule and within an optimized budget.
Results
The project was completed in April 2024 and enabled the apartments to be fully re-let immediately after construction work was completed.