Guesthouse Project
The IRB is building a residence for students (Guesthouse) to offer students short-term accommodation until they find a flat in Bellinzona. The Guesthouse would also host visiting scientists who come to the IRB for a short period of time for scientific exchange or collaborative projects.
The strategic importance of this project lies in increasing the Institute’s attractiveness to young international talents, while facilitating a smooth start to scientific activities, free from the objective difficulties associated with finding accommodation in a new environment. Offering supportive framework conditions will make the IRB as attractive as national or international research centers that are typically very well equipped in this regard. In addition, the Guesthouse will create a ‘community’ and team spirit to facilitate the integration of new arrivals. Supporting the construction of this Guesthouse means promoting the researchers of tomorrow (professionally and personally).
The building will extend over six above-ground floors and one basement level, designed according to a modern, functional architectural concept focused on the quality of life of its guests. From the ground floor to level 4, there will be four furnished single rooms per floor, each equipped with a private bathroom and ranging in size from 18 to 21 sqm, with a small balcony. Each of these levels will also include a shared common room of approximately 15 sqm, fitted with a fully equipped kitchen, designed as a space for socializing and sharing. The top floor (level 6) will feature two one-bedroom apartments of around 50 sqm, each with their own private kitchen, and balcony. These are designed to offer greater independence and privacy for visiting scientists. Thus, the Guesthouse will be able to host 20 students and 2 visiting researchers at a time.
The basement level will host a shared laundry facility and storage rooms to support guests’ daily needs.
Particular attention will be paid to environmental sustainability: the structure will be powered by renewable energy, through an air-to-water heat pump and a photovoltaic system, in line with the latest energy standards.
All towels, linens, bedsheets, and kitchenware will be provided. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. Cleaning of the rooms once a week will be entrusted to an agency.
To finance this Guesthouse, the IRB is promoting a private donation campaign. Thanks to this initiative, anyone who wishes to contribute can participate in financing the Guesthouse by providing concrete support for the project and the students and researchers who will benefit from it.
Contacts
For Donations:
Head of Development
maryse.letiembre@irb.usi.ch
058 666 70 19
For Technical and Operational Aspects
Head of Operations
sara.maffei@irb.usi.ch
058 666 74 22
The Guesthouse will be located on Via Murate 11 in Bellinzona, just 300 meters (4 minutes’ walk) from the IRB. It will also be only 17 minutes’ walk from the train station and 10 minutes from the City Center, where all groceries can be found.
