Symbiosis of old building renovation and new construction
The Uhlenhorst nursing home in the Hamburg district of the same name comprises three separate buildings. The Schwanenwik building, which will house the inpatient care area in the future, was the focus of the modernisation project. In order to minimise the ecological footprint and optimise internal logistics by short distances, the existing building complex was extended by four strategically placed annexes. An additional floor was also added to create more space.
While the fine-tuning of the electrical and plumbing installations is in full swing, as well as the finalisation of the finishing work, the construction site teams are also making the area around the building look its best. Winter conditions with freezing temperatures have slowed down work on the outdoor facilities somewhat. But with the warming rays of sunshine, every time slot is used to make progress. Outdoor facilities will be completed by the end of April 2025, and the construction equipment and containers will be permanently replaced by paved paths, benches and plantings.
Appreciation for the good result
As with every major construction project in the middle of dense urban development, there are still a few hurdles to overcome. For example, traffic logistics require special attention in order to keep access free for ambulances, waste collection and visitors to the other two buildings, and to avoid exacerbating the parking situation for residents.
Manfred Kögler, site manager at PORR building construction, region North, tells a little anecdote that shows that the residents also appreciate the new look of the Uhlenhorst nursing home: ‘A resident came to the site manager's office to spontaneously express her compliments for the “great facade”. Such moments show that the hard work is worthwhile and appreciated by the neighbourhood.’
