Incompleteness, Loneliness, Solitude, Resonance, Resistance, Play

The project explores the phenomenon of loneliness in our society – not only as a condition arising from the absence of a supportive network, but also as something rooted in a desire for solitude.

This exploration is grounded in the case study of La Loca, an elderly transgender woman who became a source of inspiration for the project through her experience of loneliness, social exclusion, and oppression – but also of independence.

Research shows that loneliness poses significant risks to health. Our expectations around relationships are shaped by culture, economic circumstances, and personality. Life events such as relocation or loss disrupt social structures. The way we think and feel about these experiences determines whether loneliness is seen as temporary or permanent.

The alley from the film, the so-called Conventillos, and the existing structure of the urban block in Zurich serve as urban design guidelines. The classic morphology is continued and comes to life especially through the encounter between existing elements of the parking garage and the former car wash.

The Conventillos are an interesting reference. Over time, they evolved into spaces of resistance, community, and everyday interaction. In the alleyways, people wash clothes, cook, and play together.

The question of when we want to be alone, and to what extent a communal model should be considered the default, seems especially relevant today in light of increasing loneliness. The house is intended to allow people to experience different forms of loneliness, solitude, and community – to find clarity about how they want to live.

The topic of loneliness should also be given attention at the political level. Inspired by Robert Filliou and the Fluxus art movement, play and the network are seen as a method of thinking, living, and negotiation. Following the case study’s theme of resistance, a Ministry of Care is proposed.

The Minister for Loneliness and Play aims to strengthen networks and challenge existing structures.

In parallel, the project focusing on the material study of a guardrail. As part of a broader exploration of material ageing, the physical transformation through bending became central. This deformation was interpreted as both a structural and symbolic gesture. In another way it is used as a formwork for fluid Earth.

How can solitude be expressed architecturally? Where do people seek to be alone – and when? This project seeks to respond to these questions through architecture: a building that acknowledges the dual nature of human longing – with one entrance for retreating into solitude, and another for stepping into togetherness.

Project by: Samuel Santschi

Teaching team: Anna Puigjaner, Dafni Retzepi, Ethel Baraona Pohl, Pol Esteve Castelló, Lisa Maillard, He Shen, He Yufei. In collaboration with BUK

Master Thesis: Spring 2025