In the historic district of Kempraten, in the town of Rapperswil-Jona, lies the modern Jonagold residential development – a place that combines urban living with peace and relaxation. Near the town centre, well-thought-out outdoor spaces were created here, allowing for both community and retreat. For this project, we were allowed to Groundworks as well as the Greening of several private roof terraces implement. The result clearly shows: a stylish terrace and a central location are by no means mutually exclusive.
Community and privacy in harmony
From the moment you enter the development, you get the feeling of being in a peaceful, family-oriented neighbourhood. Generous private gardens, combined with privacy walls and deliberate planting, create secluded retreats. This achieves a tangible balance between openness and privacy under the open sky – a concept that slows down everyday life and creates space for relaxation.
Individual patio design in harmony with consistent architecture
Even in a housing estate, a terrace doesn't have to be uniform. Although the layouts of the roof terraces are structured similarly, each one shows its own personal touch. The residents were able to incorporate their personal wishes and design their individual oasis of well-being.
Whether it's an outdoor dining area, a relaxed shaded lounge, or a gently trickling fountain – the possibilities are diverse. It is precisely this individuality that makes every terrace a special retreat, providing new energy for everyday life.
Thoughtful levels for more structure and harmony
The roof terraces were each divided into two levels. A pergola forms the base for a sheltered dining area – ideal for social hours with family and friends. Complementing this, additional seating areas, sunbathing spots, or fire pits add individual touches.
A five-step staircase leads to the upper level, where further design ideas have been implemented. From clearly structured planting areas to gravel-dominated quiet zones and modern seating fountains, the full spectrum of contemporary terrace design is on display. Special highlights include solitary trees such as the Serviceberry (Amelanchier lamarckii) or the Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum), which inspire with their intense autumn colours. In spring, the Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata), with its white blossoms, provides an elegant eye-catcher.
Private outdoor space
Materials and plants in harmonious interplay
The combination of slabs, gravel, concrete and wood gives every patio a modern yet warm feel. The targeted placement of seating areas, sunshades and green spaces creates versatile possibilities for use – from sociable meeting spots to quiet retreats.
This concept is continued in the communal areas as well: climbing plants such as the five-leaf akebia (Akebia quinata) and the mountain clematis (Clematis montana ‘Rubens’) green the walls and soften the architecture. This creates a consistently green overall impression that combines naturalness and urbanity.
Terraces as personal retreats above the city rooftops
This project impressively demonstrates how high-quality external space design can be consistently extended from the communal areas right through to private terraces. Despite unified architecture, there remains room for individuality – therein lies the strength of modern residential developments.
The created roof terraces offer residents the opportunity to enjoy their personal oasis of calm high above the city's rooftops – stylishly, individually, and perfectly tailored to their needs.
