The leitmotif during conversion of the Engelhof into accommodation for the University of Basle was above all to maintain the integrity of the 700 year old building structure. This demanded a differentiated, conservative approach, one which allowed for changes of plan in the fight of discoveries made about the structure during renovation work - an important aspect in dealing with historic buildings. Two faculties were to be housed in the two main wings of the building, and great attention was paid to integration at ground floor level.