Situated in Carinthia, south-east of Villach, with views of the mountain panorama, this ensemble in Maria Gail consists of two offset, interlocking cubes, a layout that creates an entrance forecourt and a garden for patients suffering from dementia. The rectangular facade openings, with wooden windows and larch ventilation louvres over the escape staircases, make reference to a traditional form of agricultural construction in this area. The nursing wards on every floor are articulated into two groups of dwellings, each of which is laid out about an atrium. Covered with glazed roofs, these planted and partly furnished spaces function as winter gardens. Situated at the point of intersection of the two blocks are nursing services, vertical means of access and ancillary care facilities, plus adjoining living, cooking and dining areas. This layout ensures short routes and an economic operation of the home. A loggia and an elongated terrace above the entrance provide outdoor spaces that can be used throughout the year. The dwelling units are set out around the winter gardens, thus ensuring simple orientation by virtue of the enclosed circulation routes, which act as filters between the private rooms and the communal realms. Deep recesses with large areas of glazing allow a high level of daylight to enter the corridors as well as providing seating areas for spontaneous encounters. Timber elements and warm colour tones conjure a familiar, homely atmosphere.