House of Second Spring

When older adults experience love and sexuality again, they gain new energy, agility, and confidence. This so-called 'Second Spring' can significantly enhance their quality of life. Yet, seniors exploring their sexuality often face societal stigma — a bias also reflected in urban spaces. In Zurich, spaces for sexual exploration or education tend to be expensive, youth-oriented or therapeutic. There are no public institutions dedicated to elderly sexuality (yet).

We propose the 'House of Second Spring' at Bucheggplatz: a place to gather, learn, explore, and flourish.

The building follows the form of nearby houses on Hofwiesenstrasse and connects to the pedestrian overpass, with accessible entrances at street and overpass levels.

Concrete slabs supported by columns form the mezzanine and rooftop garden. An elevator and stairs link all levels. Loadbearing brick cores contain intimate rooms tailored to the needs of aging bodies, inspired by films like ‘Wolke 9’. These spaces are both structural and symbolic backbones of the project.

Public areas include a café for community events, an exhibition on later-life sexuality, and a workshop space. Greenery ensures privacy and continuity into the rear garden. Rooftop flower beds enable accessible gardening. By creating visibility, the project aims to normalize senior sexuality and enrich later life.

Project by: Ines Rouane, Kornelia Fehnle, Myriam Ledermann

Teaching team: Anna Puigjaner, Dafni Retzepi, Ethel Baraona Pohl, Lisa Maillard, Luis Úrculo, Pol Esteve Castelló, He Shen

Design Studio: Spring 2025

Photos and Videos taken by Luis Úrculo