The type of expansive, minimalist concrete architecture associated with the Brutalist movement was initially designed with low-cost social housing in mind. In London, some of the original standout buildings of that style (like Trellick Tower and the Barbican) still offer affordable accommodations for a wide variety of residents. But as cities around the world grow more crowded and apartments more expensive than ever before, such spaces are increasingly seen as luxuries ? and priced accordingly.

Walk around any major city today, and you?re likely to see massive concrete buildings that take up entire city blocks, with interiors full of condominiums that rent or sell for well above average. Natural light, open floor plans, and balconies are no longer accessible to just any urbanite, let alone polished modern concrete surfaces and floor-to-ceiling glazing.
Swiss architect Gus Wüstemann doesn?t think it should be that way, even in one of the most expensive cities in the world. Not only is his ?Affordable Housing Langgrüstrasse? building more interesting and sculptural than the common urban condominium, it also offers spacious apartments for rents that are among the cheapest you can find in Zurich.

Commissioned by the Baechi Foundation, the project features nine apartments set within the outer green belt of Albisrieden, drawing inspiration from the simple linear buildings of the 1950s with generously sized gardens. The foundation wanted the condo to off...