A health house in the heart of Elst
Rijnstate Elst is a compact outpatient ‘health hub’ of 13,000 m2. With a focus on a healing environment and fully outpatient care, this health center acts as the first climate-neutral hospital in Europe.
In addition to a pleasant care environment, Rijnstate is also a social meeting point. Thanks to its central location in the built-up area of Elst and various facilities, such as a restaurant and a supermarket, the building attracts patients, local residents and travelers. By offering spaces for meeting, information, prevention and education, the design promotes a seamless integration of care and daily life.
A green welcome
Rijnstate has a green environment, with fruit trees as a nod to local fruit growing. By giving greenery an important role within the design, the building and the square do not feel like a typical healthcare environment. The building is designed with a green atrium and plenty of natural light, contributing to a calming and healing environment. By allowing visitors to ‘check in’ at home, Rijnstate already knows that you are coming and the barrier will open for you. You will be recognized at the registration column, so you don’t have to wait long. But if you come earlier to have a cup of coffee or you have a One Stop Shop appointment, you can wait in a green, light atrium.
Naturally Sustainable
Rijnstate in Elst is naturally sustainable. It achieves sustainability not only through technology and utilizing natural resources but also through clever design features such as rotating panels in the facade, natural ventilation, regionally sourced and demountable materials, and a high degree of future flexibility ingrained in its DNA.
G.A.F.’s design is an innovative, compact living/healthcare environment that allows the right care to be provided in the right place. The design of Rijnstate Elst supports care outside the building, whether it be at home or at another healthcare location. This is the future of Rijnstate Elst—a building that faces outward, supports the surrounding environment, and welcomes the outside world.
