Swiss architect André E. Bosshard understood the unique advantages of living in Zurich - the pristine lake, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the city's remarkable ability to blend modern innovation with traditional charm. However, as an introverted and intensely private individual, Bosshard faced a fascinating design challenge when creating a home for his own family. His solution was an ingenious inward-facing atrium retreat that offers complete privacy from neighbors while maintaining spectacular panoramic views of Lake Zurich and the Alps.
Located in the southern Wollishofen district, House Bosshard sits prominently on a street lined with modernist villas and traditional half-timbered homes, all facing the picturesque lake. The residence showcases bold yet pragmatic rationality in its design approach. Constructed in 1968 using reinforced concrete, the structure features durable fiber cement siding and is crowned with a distinctive four-part shed roof that slopes gracefully toward the central courtyard. The architectural details create a sense of harmony and closure, with walls and ceilings on the upper level folding seamlessly into one another.
The interior design emphasizes both durability and elegance, with thick slate floors providing a grounding presence throughout the entire 2,368-square-foot building. The property opens into a private ground floor that houses two spacious bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and an impressive long library featuring built-in bookshelves. Tucked discretely behind the entrance hall, visitors will find an antechamber with a shower that leads to a remarkable 23-foot therapy bath, which the architect installed following his doctor's recommendation for health benefits.
A striking floating chrome staircase serves as the connection between floors, leading up to the main living areas that are thoughtfully arranged around the central atrium terrace. The outdoor space includes a convenient overhang that creates perfect conditions for al fresco dining beside the fireplace. The home features a professional-grade gourmet kitchen, accessible through elegant double swing doors, which flows seamlessly into a magnificent south-facing living and dining space. This great room is enhanced by strategically placed windows facing both north and south, ensuring abundant natural light throughout the day.
Built into a substantial 7,470-square-foot hillside plot, the house achieves the perfect balance between privacy and openness. While the street-facing side remains sheltered and private, the lake-facing side is blessed with expansive windows that frame Lake Zurich, making the water and sky feel like constant companions. The location offers exceptional convenience, with the beach just a three-minute walk away. Additionally, the property includes exclusive access via a key to the historic underpass that leads directly to the lakefront lido, a swimming facility originally designed by Hermann Herter 111 years ago.
This unique architectural gem represents a masterful solution to the challenge of creating privacy while maximizing natural beauty. The home successfully demonstrates how thoughtful design can honor both an architect's personal needs for solitude and the desire to embrace the stunning natural environment that Zurich offers. Interested buyers can contact the selling agent Poetic Walls to inquire about the asking price for this exceptional property.
