Located on Brandschenkestrasse in the heart of Zurich, Clinic Selnau is the transformation of a historic residential and office building into a contemporary private medical facility. cocc. and coherent ag was commissioned to lead the architectural and interior architectural design while developing the project‘s overall spatial identity.

The project presented a complex challenge: a listed building originally designed for residential and office use had to be carefully adapted to accommodate operating theatres, consultation rooms, recovery areas and a highly specialised medical infrastructure. Historic fabric, structural reinforcement, fire safety regulations and the functional requirements of a modern clinic had to be integrated into one coherent architectural response.

Working within existing buildings requires more than preserving historic substance. It demands a precise understanding of the relationship between architecture, structure, function and technical performance. Rather than redefining the building, the design sought to reveal and strengthen its inherent character while enabling a completely new programme.

The existing material palette — sandstone, natural stone, solid timber and terrazzo flooring — became the foundation for the architectural language of the intervention. Historic elements were carefully restored and complemented by a calm, timeless interior architecture. Newly developed sandstone arches establish a clear spatial sequence, connecting reception, consultation rooms, treatment areas, operating theatres and the integrated photo studio into one coherent experience.

Particular attention was given to the lighting concept. Generous daylight openings were combined with a precisely calibrated Tunable White lighting system that continuously adapts to the natural rhythm of daylight. The result is a balanced and atmospheric environment that supports both the functional demands of medical practice and the wellbeing of patients and staff. As with all projects by cocc.and coherent ag, the design process began with hand sketches. We believe architecture starts long before digital modelling—with an understanding of space, proportion, materiality and light. Especially in historic buildings, the quality of an intervention often lies not in contrast, but in the careful continuation of what already exists.

In close collaboration with Dr Simon Zimmermann, the project also included the development of the Clinic Selnau brand identity. Architecture, interior architecture and corporate identity were conceived as one integrated system, creating an environment defined by medical precision, trust and enduring spatial quality.

Clinic Selnau exemplifies our approach to adaptive reuse: understanding the existing building, recognising its potential and carefully transforming it through contemporary architecture, technical precision and a deep respect for its architectural heritage.

Services: Architecture, Interior Architecture, Corporate Architecture, Material & Colour Concept, Lighting Design, Signage & Spatial Identity, Brand Development, Project Management.