Trans*Visible

TRANS*VISIBLE – not Guests. Hosts. TRANS*VISIBLE addresses the gap in dedicated spaces for elderly trans individuals in Zurich by proposing a bold architectural intervention that balances visibility, care, and protection.

Inspired by Harper, a 63-year-old trans woman’s story, the project envisions a new public space at Bucheggplatz where the trans community can host events on their own terms.

The design features two key elements: a large steel billboard covered in mesh fabric that projects trans-elderly-friendly events throughout the city, and a sheltered volume behind it.

The billboard asserts presence and visibility, while a small kiosk at its base functions as an information and social hub. Behind the screen lies a flexible event hall bordered by supporting rooms. On the ground floor, storage, restrooms, and a bar open through large garage doors directly into the hall, enabling seamless integration of these spaces. The upper floor houses a communal kitchen and a living room-like area with a library and spaces for private conversations. Movable shelves and curtains allow the space to adapt to different needs and levels of intimacy.

Care is thoughtfully integrated through barrier-free design, visually marked circulation, and built-in benches for rest and quiet participation.

TRANS*VISIBLE is more than a building - it is a spatial declaration of belonging, care, and visibility for an often unseen community.

Project by: Fabia Streiff, Julianna Emmenegger, Lara Bodmer

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