Mr Jung, as the overall project manager for the construction of the new Anna Seiler House at Inselspital Bern, you were also in charge on the day of the move to the new building. What stands out most in your memory from that time?

The relocation of eleven clinics and institutions, involving around 2,500 staff and a total of 219 patients, within two days was a logistical feat for which we had been preparing for four years. The two days of the move were characterised by the tremendous dedication of everyone involved, including 140 volunteers. I am proud and grateful that we have managed to pull off this massive project so successfully.

How significant is the new building for healthcare provision in the Canton of Bern?

With this new building, the Insel Group is laying the foundations for the highest standard of medical care and modern working conditions. The state-of-the-art infrastructure, with its streamlined processes and short distances, enhances collaboration between departments and specialist units. This fosters communication and also gives staff more time to spend with patients. The building’s infrastructure is unrivalled in Switzerland and raises the quality of care to a new level.

What interior design considerations were taken into account during the initial planning stages of the Anna Seiler House?

In hospital design, function always takes precedence over form. The challenge for the architects was to combine all the requirements with a clear and timeless design. It was important to us that everyone could find their way around the building easily. That is why lighting and wayfinding were central themes during the planning phase. Equally important are the warm, high-quality materials and the green terraces – patients, staff and visitors alike should feel comfortable and welcome in the building.

GLAESER was commissioned to supply interior fittings such as wall and bench panelling, benches and water stations. What purpose do these pieces of furniture and fixtures serve?

GLAESER’s work is primarily found in public areas such as waiting and lounge areas. These areas are given a distinctive character by the GLAESER elements, which create a pleasant sense of space within the public areas of the Anna Seiler House. The elements also help to optimise acoustics and, thanks to the quality of their craftsmanship, create a warm, almost homely atmosphere.

How did the collaboration with GLAESER come about, and how has it developed over the course of the project?

The contracts for the Anna Seiler House were put out to public tender, following which GLAESER was awarded the contract. Personally, I had no prior dealings with GLAESER before this point, but the collaboration ran extremely smoothly and pleasantly from the sampling stage right through to completion. This was by no means a given, as the realisation of such a complex large-scale project in the middle of the hospital grounds required well-coordinated site logistics. During peak periods, we had almost 1,000 tradespeople on site every day for the interior fit-out – so it was essential to adhere to and enforce the rules. GLAESER managed this well, and the feedback on the completed work from the clinics and the maintenance team has been consistently positive.