The highest level of sensitivity required

The refurbishment and extension of the Eichhof nursing home in Lucerne built in 1973, constitutes a model for building for the elderly in the present day. The guidelines were to ease orientation through clarity, to maintain individuality through comfort and to simplify care through functionality.

The construction of two atria played a crucial role as they serve as orientation aids as does the colour concept. Rooms with single or twin beds replace those with four beds akin to hospitals.

The entrance hall is reminiscent of a hotel lobby and constitutes a meeting point with its open infrastructure. Opposite it, the new centre for the elderly offers patients with dementia the necessary architectural support by means of clear structures. The protected garden also forms part of this concept.