Extension to Geeren Centre for the Elderly, Seuzach

Inward Concentration

The analysis of local building patterns and the consideration of the operational needs suggested a strategy of increasing density from the periphery to the core. The new extensions complement the existing buildings and create a single compact entity, while keeping land use low and offering very generously sized outdoor spaces.

Indoors, the existing buildings and the extensions are interconnected via clearly sequenced spaces:
The ground floor is presented as a public zone with an attractive driveway, a central reception desk, high permeability towards the outdoors, and simple circulation routes to the A, B, and C wings.
The nursing care floors are characterised by domestic intimacy with plenty of daylight and a variety of visual foci both indoors and outdoors.

The construction work is divided into two separate phases, making it possible to build without interrupting the centre's operation. The structural design and services planning of the new extensions ensure flexibility in fitting out the floors and ease in meeting the Minergie standard.

The first stage was completed in April 2020 and the expanded and renovated restaurant went into operation.

Credits

Commissioned study after prequalification, 1. prize 2013
Construction sum: approx. CHF 45 mn
Client: Zweckverband Alterszentrum im Geeren
Architect and project coordinator: Bob Gysin Partner BGP Architekten ETH SIA BSA
Structural engineer: Basler & Hofmann, Zürich
Building services engineer: 3-Plan, Winterthur
Sustainability and building physics: EK Energiekonzepte, Zürich
Photography: Roman Weyeneth, Basel