Urban oasis for the treatment and activation of patients
The connection between the train station and the city center has been designed as a mineral axis in collaboration with Atelier Romain. The hospital has been developed as an urban structure with the recognizable and repetitive element of the “small grain.” Along this route, the hospital opens up through an arcade that reflects its public character and provides a gradual transition from outside to inside. Accessibility and recognition of public functions such as the reception hall, restaurant, and health-related services are emphasized. In phase 2, the adjacent location of Proximus will also be integrated into the development of these functions, transforming the hospital into a healthcare boulevard. The restaurant is located on the south side, in a bend of the Demer river, with terraces on both sides offering a beautiful view of the Cerkel park.
Rich classical brick façade
The façades are constructed using masonry, with a classical division into three sections translated by an arch, onto which various types of bricks are applied, with a perforated finish. The columns of the arch are vertical, creating a beautiful segmentation and rhythm in the façade. Between these columns, horizontal masonry surfaces are incorporated, with various variations of the perforated finish, including openings, dark bricks, or protruding stones outward. By using two types of bricks applied in different patterns, a richly diversified urban façade has been created.
Activating
The concept of the “small grain” is developed through small-scale buildings that together form the hospital. These small-scale buildings are composed of two V-shaped wings that adjoin each other with their open sides. The bright central space in the middle of these wings forms the heart of the activating concept for the hospital, particularly for the nursing department. Here, patients are encouraged to actively work on their recovery. There is a lounge area where drinks and food are offered, and where fitness facilities and other activities are available. This enables various forms of active engagement and relaxation, and promotes the use of the patient’s room primarily as a sleeping area, aiming to recreate a home-like environment as much as possible.
