The extension to the Magdalenenheim in Landshut was officially opened last Saturday on a beautiful summer’s day. The new facility, which is directly connected to the main building of the retirement and care home, not only offers 21 additional rooms, nine of which are wheelchair accessible, but also a number of improvements for residents and staff alike.

In his opening speech, administrator of the charitable trust, Dieter Groß, recalled the initial challenges of the project in 2022, when the extension began with the start of excavation work. Today, the building boasts spacious lounges, terraces, balconies, a therapy bath, a training room for trainee nurses and an in-house laundry in the basement. On the upper floors, so-called nurses' stations provide space for the day-to-day organisation of the routines of the care work.

The Mayor Alexander Putz praised the project as an ‘important investment in the future’ that focuses not on economic viability, but on the well-being of people. With total investment of 9.6 million Euros, enabled the facility to not only be extended but also modernised.

The architect, Bernhard Fischer, who collaborated with the DELTA Gruppe on the project, spoke very personally about his own particular connection to the home: his mother lives there. This made it all the more important for him to create a bright, warm and friendly environment where residents have complete comfort. DELTA was responsible for the execution planning, tendering and contract awarding, as well as construction management for the project.

As the existing Kneipp garden had to make way for the extension, it was necessary to create an equally attractive alternative. This was done by creating a new Kneipp facility on the roof terrace, which is now a place residents can relax and enjoy the views. The outdoor areas have also been redesigned and connect the rooms with the path along the River Isar. Large balconies offer impressive views of Trausnitz Castle and St. Martin's Church in the city – so beautiful that there have already been enquiries about buying an ‘apartment’ there.

The new building, which complies with the German KfW 55 energy efficiency standard, is constructed using traditional masonry and is designed to accommodate photovoltaic systems. A new staircase improves everyday routines and reduces the workload for staff. ‘It's more than just a functional building,’ emphasised Fischer. ‘It's a place where people can spend their twilight years in dignity, safety and comfort.

A special moment of the celebration was the interdenominational blessing made by Pastor Johanna Krieger and Deacon Christian Schmidl. By making reference to the Letter to the Romans, they called for everyone to treat each other equally and with respect: both the residents and the staff.

Afterwards, guests were given a guided tour of the new premises and enjoyed refreshments from the in-house kitchen. The opening ceremony on the roof terrace was a successful celebration of new beginnings and new encounters.