Residential, retirement and care centre run by Stiftung Blindenheim Basel

Creating a beautiful environment that makes life easier.

Part of the new building in the centre of Basel is open to the public. We always kept this in mind when designing the new furnishings in cooperation with Girsberger and the people who live and work there. It soon became clear that all the details that are important to people with disabilities also make everyone else’s time in the building more pleasant. This started with the installation of concrete acoustic ceilings designed by Esch Sintzel Architekten, which absorb sound and improve room acoustics: an important effect when the ear has to take on more orientation tasks, but also something that improves comfort for everyone else as well. We enhanced the effect by choosing special textiles for upholstery and curtains. We also used helpful and visually appealing light/dark contrasts in all areas, while also focusing on surface feel. For example, striking textile structures, cool natural stone and sensuously shaped wood elements were used, and unfriendly corners and edges avoided. We attached great importance to legroom at the tables, which makes access easier for wheelchair users and carers alike. And, of course, the sofas and armchairs in the lobby were also ergonomically adapted. They help the person sitting on them to sit up straighter and make it easier for them to sit down and stand up – measures that are appreciated by everyone. For the private rooms, we created an understated line of furniture whose elements harmonise with residents’ own pieces.

Given the great number of new seats required, it was also worth developing our own line of chairs. In cooperation with Girsberger Customized Furniture, we created a chair family with a diverse range of members: from chairs with or without armrests, with textile or woven surfaces, to bar stools for the bistro bar.

Thanks to these considerations, expert knowledge and the personal experience of the residents, the common areas and work rooms, as well as the restaurant and bistro, became tasteful and homely places for everyone.