Home for the Elderly and Nursing Homes, Upper Frick Valley, Switzerland

The Association for the Care of the Aged in the Upper Frick Valley runs two nursing homes for the aged, in Frick and Laufenburg. The Frick establishment was recently expanded with the construction of apartments for the elderly.

Walker Architekten AG designed an exceptionally environmentally friendly and space-optimising building. Special attention was also given to integrating the new building with the existing residential area.

An important goal was to design the building so that natural light could permeate the apartments whilst at the same time offering a view of the landscaped park. This was achieved through a floor to ceiling glass façade. In order to evaluate solar transmission into the building, an extensive climate simulation was carried out. The aim was to achieve reduced solar radiation during the day and cool temperatures at night. To fulfil these requirements, Pilkington Insulight Activ™ Sun glass units (self-cleaning glass with a solar control coating) are fitted. In total 450 m2 Pilkington Insulight Activ™ was used.

Through the intelligent application of advanced glazing technology and market-proven controls, a pleasant room temperature was achieved for the residents without expensive and energy intensive air conditioning.

Walker Architekten AG,

 Christoph Rufle, Brugg,