Rheinstrasse Project: 16 Net-Zero Apartments
Attractive returns. Measurable impact.
A 16-unit apartment building is being constructed at Rheinstrasse 19 in Widnau, SG, using the OPENLY construction system. Biogenic building materials, industrial prefabrication, and net-zero energy combine a consistently CO₂-optimized construction method with high quality of living and economic efficiency.
The project also marks an important milestone: As OPENLY RETURN Holding’s first real estate investment, the Rheinstrasse project kicks off the development of a long-term portfolio of sustainable Swiss residential properties. The building permit application has been submitted.
22.5% EBIT
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8.75 million CHF in investment costs
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6 kg CO₂/m² target value
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Fully decarbonized
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22.5% EBIT 〰️ 8.75 million CHF in capital expenditures 〰️ 6 kg CO₂/m² target 〰️ Fully decarbonized 〰️
Southeast View
A residential building designed differently from the very beginning
The real estate industry faces a fundamental challenge: Existing buildings must undergo energy-efficiency retrofits and decarbonization over the course of decades.
Three principles are central:
Net-Zero Construction: Reduce gray emissions to approximately 6 kg CO₂/m² per year and store carbon in biogenic building materials.
Net-positive energy during operation: Photovoltaics and reduced building systems enable an annual energy surplus. As a result, the Openly Return portfolio is fully decarbonized.
Healthier Living: Wood, hemp, and clay help create a pleasant, natural indoor environment.
Southwest View
Sustainable construction must be economically viable
Rheinstrasse demonstrates that a construction method consistently optimized for CO₂ emissions does not necessarily result in higher construction costs.
OPENLY setzt auf vier wirtschaftliche Hebel: industrielle Vorfertigung, massiv reduzierte Haustechnik, systematisierte Planung und kurze Bauzeiten (<1 Jahr).
Construction costs for the project are estimated at approximately 900 CHF per cubic meter. The total project costs, including the land, amount to approximately 8.75 million CHF.
There are also economic benefits during operation. Low operating costs, a high quality of living, and on-site energy production strengthen the property’s long-term profitability.
Real Estate That Becomes Part of the Solution
Rheinstrasse represents a fundamental shift in perspective. Buildings should not only consume less energy and emit less CO₂; they should also generate energy, store carbon, promote healthy living, and be economically attractive at the same time.