The Bollwerk Pharmacy is situated directly opposite Bern railway station and has been housed in a historic building dating from 1920 since 1938. In the early 1960s, the pharmacy began specialising in naturopathy and complementary medicine, and soon became known throughout the region as a herbalist’s. Later, the range was expanded to include traditional Chinese medicine and compounded preparations.
As early as 2008, the former owner commissioned Global Shop Design to carry out a preliminary design, but it became apparent that the time was not yet right for a major refurbishment.
In 2024, the property company planned a complete refurbishment of the listed building. In this context, we were once again approached by the successor and new owner, Mr Rudi Kilchherr, to undertake a project. Thanks to the good relationships established back then, our ability to understand the client’s wishes and our strong design expertise, Global Shop Design was awarded the contract.
The refurbishment was to be cost-effective, blend in with the stately, historic building and reflect the pharmacy’s history. Furthermore, the focus was to be on personalised consultations, and the product range – which centres on natural remedies and herbs – was to be highlighted. The refurbishment was to take place whilst the pharmacy remained open.
The pharmacy, which at the time comprised a ground floor with a mezzanine, a first basement level with a laboratory and preparation room, and a second basement level with a laboratory for the production of traditional Chinese medicine and storage rooms, was refurbished in three stages. The TCM laboratory was relocated off-site. In addition, a new staff lounge with a cloakroom and washroom, as well as an office, were fitted out.
On the first basement level, a new laboratory, a new compounding area, as well as an additional office and a consultation room were created.
On the ground floor, two new consultation rooms were set up alongside the back office and the dispensing area.
Whilst the ground floor was being refurbished, the pharmacy was temporarily housed in a container near the Neuengass underpass.
The design fully reflects the pharmacy’s identity and the client’s vision. The natural feel is conveyed by oak parquet flooring, whilst the long tradition and history are represented by historic tiles, a classic-style counter and elegant shelving with decorative elements. All of this was designed by Global Shop Design with dedication and attention to detail.
