As the final component in the comprehensive renewal of the SAW Espenhof estate, a contemporary, barrier-free retirement housing development was to be built in Zürich-Albisrieden. The replacement building involved demolishing the existing building, including the removal of hazardous materials, and constructing 28 flats for older people with shared areas. It was a public project with formal tendering procedures and high requirements for sustainability (Minergie-P-ECO) and inclusive design.

The hybrid construction, with a concrete core and timber-panel building, and the tight cost and time frame placed high demands on the coordination of design and construction.