St. Peter & Paul Courthouse – Community-Centered Architectural Extension in Zürich

The St. Peter & Paul Courthouse by Knorr & Pürckhauer Architekten is a thoughtful architectural extension that redefines the role of a courtyard building in Zürich’s historic Werd district. Commissioned by the St. Peter and Paul Parish Church Foundation, the project provides much-needed additional space for the parish’s retirement center, while simultaneously revitalizing the surrounding neighborhood.

A Contemporary Courtyard Transformation

Courtyard structures are common across Zürich, often housing workshops, offices, studios, or cultural spaces. In this case, the architects envisioned more than an extension—they created a neighborhood pavilion that blends functionality, community engagement, and architectural expression. Drawing inspiration from Max Liebermann’s painting Biergarten in Brannenburg, the project transforms the previously enclosed courtyard into an open, vibrant communal space. Fences were removed, a unified gravel surface was introduced, and the new structure became a focal point for both residents and neighbors.

Spatial Program and Design Concept

The building consists of three stacked levels, each designed with a distinct character and function:

• Ground Floor Pavilion: A transparent, glazed level that encourages interaction. This flexible space allows retirement home residents to pursue hobbies such as cooking, sewing, handicrafts, and flower arranging, while maintaining a strong visual connection to the courtyard through floor-to-ceiling glazing.
• Upper Floor Offices: Beneath a green pre-oxidized copper roof, the upper level accommodates new offices for the parish foundation. Generous circular windows and bright white interiors create a light-filled, uplifting work environment.
• Basement Auditorium: Below ground, a multifunctional auditorium receives daylight through a semicircular skylight. This space supports community gatherings, events, and activities, strengthening the social function of the project.

Circulation and Material Expression

A sculptural spiral staircase connects all levels, linking the new extension seamlessly to the existing retirement center. Materially, the design juxtaposes transparent glass, natural light, and patinated copper, achieving both durability and timeless character.

Community Impact

The St. Peter & Paul Courthouse is more than an architectural addition—it is a social catalyst. By extending the retirement center and opening the courtyard to the neighborhood, Knorr & Pürckhauer Architekten have created a welcoming civic space that fosters interaction, inclusivity, and shared experience in Zürich’s urban fabric.

All Photographs are works of Philip Heckhausen