Children's hospital

Balance between function and comfort

Offering the latest diagnostic and therapy services, the Bethel Children's Centre in Bielefeld provides children and adolescents with the very best care. Architecturally, the newbuild combines functionality and modern design with a warm and inviting atmosphere that is specially tailored to the needs of children and their families.

Reference details

Type of Building Health
Product areas Fire and smoke protection
Schüco Systems Janisol 2 EI30 FWS 50 Economy 50 RS
Features Fire protection
Location Bielefeld, Germany
Completion 2022
Architects v. Bodelschwinghsche Stiftungen Bethel
Specialist company Siegfried Wölz Stahl- und Metallbau GmbH & Co. KG
Picture credits © Barbara Franke

"Dancing" pavilions

The children's centre is situated at the bottom of a valley. The location is characterised by the uneven terrain and surrounding green spaces, which permeate the interior of the clinic. A generous thoroughfare along the valley floor forms the backbone of the entire building complex. Six square pavilions "dance" along it, responding to the different references and alignments of the surrounding buildings in a playful way and incorporating the urban grain.

Transparency and perfect shading

The building envelope features bright colours, creating a positive atmosphere. Large glass areas in the Schüco mullion/transom façade allow daylight to flood the interior, which has a positive impact on the energy balance and ensures an environment that promotes health and well-being. If required, Schüco ZIP awnings can be used to provide the rooms with shade. Large-scale fire doors made of steel, which are extremely sturdy and secure despite their ultra-slimline profiles, provide protection in the event of a fire.