Many leading researchers – one foundation

© Claudia Binder

© Claudia Binder

© Claudia Binder

© Claudia Binder

© Claudia Binder

© Claudia Binder

Top researchers from various disciplines as well as representatives from industry work side by side: At the end of 2015, a groundbreaking medical research and development center for the musculoskeletal system was commissioned on the neighboring grounds of the University Hospital Balgrist in Zurich. The goal is interdisciplinary exchange between patients, doctors, researchers, and industry. The demanding international research environment required a newly designed, innovative laboratory and office concept. The aim was to promote unhindered communication and knowledge transfer between the different teams. The result is a deliberately open building with transparent, offset floors. From the perspective of architects and the client, the flooring should also support the architectural concept. The rubber coverings from nora systems combine aesthetics and functionality in an ideal way and support the innovative building concept in the project.

Consistent solution for all areas

"Through the open-space concept and the arrangement of the floors in a split-level principle, a high degree of transparency and visual contact is enabled at the Balgrist Campus," explains Hendrik Johannsen from the Basel-based Nissen Wentzlaff Architects office. In the open room design across offset levels, the floor serves as a connecting element – because only one type of covering was used throughout the building. This was intended to be suitable for the highly demanding laboratories as well as for the representative lobby in the entrance area. "We wanted a continuous floor that runs from split-level to split-level, thus unifying the different uses," explains project manager Johannsen. "Rubber can be well shaped and adapted to existing geometries such as stairs and plinths. This creates an almost seamless, homogeneous appearance."

Effective ESD protection

The choice of builders and architects fell on noraplan sentica and the dissipative special covering noraplan sentica ed, which have now been installed throughout the building on approximately 5,000 and 3,000 square meters respectively. The electrostatically dissipative "ed" (electrostatic dissipative) rubber floor provides optimal protection for electronic components, assemblies, and devices, while also safeguarding staff in the laboratories from electric shocks. Another property of the covering is its resistance to oils and fats.

Harmonious color concept

In addition to functional aspects, the client was also convinced by the harmonious color scheme of the rubber covering: The light beige is a custom-made color and enhances the bright spatial effect. The color system of noraplan sentica consists of 32 colors, supplemented by six accentuating solitary colors. Due to the restrained design of the covering, the floor surface appears almost monochrome, making the rooms inviting and pleasantly calm. At the same time, the harmonious granulate inclusion effectively conceals dirt. Thus, noraplan sentica demonstrates that the highest functionality and stylish design do not have to be mutually exclusive.