Extension of the Kantengut Retirement Community, Chur – Identity-Defining Pathway Lighting
Orientation and a Sense of Security
For the extension of the Kantengut retirement community in Chur, the planning consultancy Gradation, working in collaboration with BUR Architekten, developed a lighting concept that combines clarity, recognisability and atmospheric quality.
“The aim was to create a consistent visual identity for public and semi-public areas that supports the character of the building while also conveying a sense of orientation and security.”
Claude Hidber, lighting designer and founder of Gradation
The central element of the lighting concept is the ku2 glass sphere, used as both a ceiling and pendant luminaire. To enable the luminaires to be integrated into concrete, a bespoke mounting solution was developed. This extension of the existing luminaire range has created a coherent lighting scheme that meets a variety of architectural requirements.
“The luminaires do not merely serve as functional light sources; they deliberately orchestrate the interplay of form, materiality and light. In doing so, they create subtle contrasts, lend rhythm to the spaces, and make a significant contribution to the atmospheric quality of the interior.”
Claude Hidber
“The illuminated sphere acts as an identity-defining element of recognition throughout the building, translating the architectural concept into a clear, calm lighting language.”
Claude Hidber
The extension complements the existing ensemble of care home, retirement apartments and communal facilities. It integrates into the overall park-like setting, responds specifically to the site’s topography on the southern slope of Masans, and is conceptually defined by a clear duality.
While the street-facing side of the building is designed for social interaction, the valley-facing side is dedicated to living and retreat. The building’s circulation zones connect these two aspects, with a strong emphasis on intuitive wayfinding.
