About
Everybody should live in an environment that benefits their health. The Materials Collection of the Swiss Center for Design and Health, SCDH, contributes to this aim by curating materials for healthcare facilities and public buildings and making its holdings freely accessible, in both digital and physical forms. It provides access to extensive knowledge on the materials it contains, linking them to reference structures and research publications. A steadily growing database of information is taking shape within the collection, one that makes the process of selecting the right materials efficient and simple.
What sets us apart
Distinguishing features of the SCDH Materials Collection:
The technical information for all materials is presented in a standardised form, explanations are added where necessary, and proof of certification, if available, is attached. The harmonised data sheet, available as a PDF file, allows the direct comparison of different materials and their characteristics.
Rather than presenting materials only in isolation, the collection also allows users to see the materials in the context of concrete applications, by linking them to reference structures. One of the collection’s goals is to document all the relevant healthcare building/structures and public buildings in Switzerland.
IN USE
- Materials that are already in use in healthcare facilities or public buildings.
EXTERNALLY TESTED
- Materials assessed as suitable for use in healthcare facilities and public buildings based on the results of external research.
SCDH-TESTED
- Materials assessed as suitable for use in healthcare facilities and public buildings based on the results of the SCDH’s own research.
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Digital collection
Digital collection
- Targeted materials search thanks to filter feature and explanation of the technical requirements
- Linkage of materials to reference structures
- Free login to create a user-specific material collection
Physical collection
Physical collection
- Experiencing materials with all the senses
- In-person consulting and expertise on materials
- Samples in standardised sizes
What we offer
You can put our expertise on materials to your benefit. We provide analytical, consulting, simulation and co-prototyping services, as well as professional development offerings.
What we offer
Get involved
Contribute to knowledge exchange and innovation in the design of health facilities and public buildings by making your materials, expertise and experiences part of the SCDH Materials Collection.
Get involvedThe SCDH
The SCDH is Switzerland’s only centre of technological excellence for design research in the health sector.
The Swiss Center for Design and Health SCDH tests, researches and teaches how design can improve health. Established in 2019 as a public-private partnership, the SCDH is funded by the federal government, the Canton of Bern and private partners. To the website