Ronchetto Neighbourhood
Initial context
Ronchetto, in central Lugano, was built in 1968. Over the years it had lost much of its appeal: ageing systems, poor energy performance, tired common areas and a standard of living no longer in line with what people expect today. The sense of community had gradually faded.
When EROP came on board, it was clear that a simple refurbishment wouldn’t be enough. The neighbourhood needed a full-scale regeneration to restore its identity, its value and its long-term sustainability.
The Ronchetto project is a concrete example of how the CCD method can turn a complex development into a controlled, coherent and value‑driven process.
Needs analysis
The preliminary analysis highlighted three key needs:
- Technical and energy upgrading to ensure sustainability and lower operating costs
- Refurbishment of apartments to match current demand (brighter, more generous spaces)
- Social and communication management to maintain stability, prevent conflict and protect reputation
This phase made it possible to define technical, economic and social objectives that were fully aligned with the investor’s expected value.
Integrated design and partner involvement
From the very beginning, operational stakeholders were involved to validate technical solutions, costs and timelines. This ensured:
- A project consistent with economic targets
- Optimised, low‑risk technical solutions
- Detailed design already validated from a construction standpoint
As a result, cost variations, delays and unexpected issues were avoided.
Rigorous cost planning
The budget was set on a binding basis from the early stages. Its definition was based on an integrated analysis that allowed us to:
- Establish a clear and controllable economic framework
- Optimise costs with input from our partners
- Integrate access to available financing and incentives from the outset
This approach ensured cost certainty and significantly reduced financial and operational risk.
The Project Owner acted as the project “director”, ensuring consistent application of the CCD method and coordination of every phase.
Strategic coherence
Integration of technical partners
Cost control
Single point of contact for the client
Quality and operational continuity
Working with tenants: listening and solutions
A central element of the project was the way we managed the people involved – the tenants. At Ronchetto we activated:
- Individual assessments of needs and situations
- An on‑site information point
- One‑to‑one dialogue with each household
- Temporary housing solutions to ensure income continuity
- Logistical support for moves
- Ongoing mediation to reduce the risk of disputes
This structured, human‑centred approach prevented conflict, improved the social climate and protected the client’s reputation.
Re‑designing the apartments
The apartments were completely rethought based on real needs:
- Opening up living areas with integrated kitchen–living spaces
- Introducing terraces and liveable outdoor areas
- Reorganising bedrooms to improve comfort
- Increasing the number of bathrooms in line with current standards
- Full upgrade of systems, windows and energy performance
The result is a competitive and sustainable product.
Regenerating the urban identity
Architectural transformation went hand in hand with a complete rethink of the wider context:
- Minergie® certification
- New green areas and shared spaces
- Commercial areas focused on local services
- Community‑building through events and social activities
What has been rebuilt is not just a building, but an entire urban ecosystem.
Social and reputational value
- Zero conflicts thanks to dedicated tenant support
- A stronger sense of community in the neighbourhood
- Enhanced client image through a transparent, documented and inclusive process
Urban and environmental value
- Minergie® certified
- Reduced ancillary/operating costs
- Improved living comfort and a lower environmental footprint