Centre of competence for nursing care in Bülach

Client

Canton of St. Gallen

Task

Centre of competence for nursing care

Staff Members

Frank Roskothen, Ivano Zanetti

Status

Competition design 2003

Like the hospital, the nursing home marks the end of the structure situated across from the adjacent forest to the east. The positioning of the building creates an attractive park-like outdoor space between it and the forest. People can also see and enjoy this green oasis from inside the building.
The building is structured with a translucent base that is bathed in light. It houses the general common areas open to the public, while the solid eight-storey cube contains the rooms for patients and residents.
Positioning the nursing care wing at the southern end of the plot protects it from noise from the train station, while offering a view of the open spaces for public buildings bordering to the south.

The decision has been made not to clear the existing forest, which means it harbours interesting potential. The rare opportunity to have a striking wooded area featuring old trees around a new building of this size is put to good use. The forest is thinned, though distinctive deciduous trees are preserved.

The topography of the complex remains as it is, while efforts are made to enhance its shape as a gently undulating glade.

On-site extensions of various sizes provide space for social or more private and intimate places for people to gather in the sunshine or dappled shade.

The spacious, partially covered terrace that extends from the building into its surroundings overlooks the entire green space.