Designed by Bertrand Goldberg in 1975, the Prentice Women’s Hospital stands as a testament to innovative hospital architecture. Unlike traditional hospital buildings, Goldberg’s creation defied convention, showcasing a distinctive plinth-and-tower form that prioritized flexibility and human interaction.

Interior-Driven Design

Goldberg’s design philosophy centered on allowing interior requirements to dictate the exterior form. The hospital’s layout featured a tower atop a rectilinear plinth, with the lower floors housing surgical suites, research labs, and dining areas. The plinth’s flexibility accommodated potential changes in medical technology, while the tower’s fixed structure catered to patient care, inspired by anthropological studies on human spatial interaction.

Fostered Social Bonds

The tower’s ‘four leaf clover’ plan divided each floor into communities, promoting social connections among patients. Radial corridors facilitated chance encounters, enhancing the hospital experience. Patients were equidistant from nurses’ stations, ensuring efficient care delivery and creating a sense of community within the facility.

Innovative Structural Solution

Goldberg’s vision required load-bearing walls without external columns, a feat achieved through cutting-edge aeronautics software. This pioneering structural approach enabled cantilevered walls from the building’s core, a technique unparalleled at the time. The result was a striking concrete form that defied architectural norms.

Architectural Influence

Prentice Women’s Hospital epitomized architectural trends of the early 70s, drawing inspiration from Brutalism, humanistic design principles, and the Metabolist movement. Goldberg’s synthesis of these influences created a landmark structure that transcended traditional hospital design.

Demise and Legacy

Despite its architectural significance, Prentice Women’s Hospital met a tragic fate. Northwestern University demolished the building in 2013 to make way for a biomedical research facility. Despite efforts to preserve it, including proposals from renowned architects, the hospital’s legacy lives on in architectural discourse, a testament to Goldberg’s visionary approach to healthcare design.

Nestled within the quaint village of Borne, the ‘De poort van Borne’ Healthcare Center stands as a testament to architectural innovation and community rejuvenation. Housed within the former St. Theresa’s church, this center symbolizes the seamless integration of historical preservation with modern functionality.

A Rebirth of Purpose

In late 2017, the doors of ‘De poort van Borne’ opened to welcome 20 health and wellness practitioners, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the iconic church. Developer Erik Mijnhardt spearheaded the transformation, driven by a vision to restore the church’s social significance within the community. Working alongside Reitsema & Partners Architects and Key2 Bouwmanagement, Mijnhardt breathed new life into the sacred space.

Embracing Tradition

Built in 1935, St. Theresa’s church boasts neo-Gothic architecture, characterized by intricate brickwork, ribbed vaults, and towering windows. The challenge lay in preserving these architectural marvels while adapting the space to accommodate modern healthcare practices. Theo Reitsema, the lead architect, emphasized the importance of maintaining the church’s spatial character, paying homage to its rich heritage.

Bridging Past and Present

Central to the design is the inner court, serving as a focal point for visitors and practitioners alike. Here, amidst the church’s timeless grandeur, patients await appointments or collect prescriptions, steeped in the ambiance of centuries past. The preservation of original features, such as the baptismal font and brick vaults, serves as a poignant reminder of the building’s sacred history.

Innovative Solutions

To meet contemporary energy and insulation standards, lightweight reinforced polystyrene walls were employed, seamlessly blending modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. This unconventional approach, though novel in the Netherlands, proved instrumental in achieving the desired architectural vision. High-quality finishes, including plastered facades and brass-colored window frames, further elevate the interior aesthetics, creating a serene and timeless atmosphere.

Collaboration and Communication

The successful execution of the project was a testament to effective collaboration and communication among all stakeholders. With no general contractor overseeing the conversion, direct engagement with suppliers and subcontractors enabled swift decision-making and meticulous attention to detail. The result is a stunning testament to adaptive reuse, where historical charm converges with contemporary functionality in perfect harmony.

In essence, ‘De poort van Borne’ Healthcare Center stands as a beacon of architectural excellence and community revitalization, embodying the timeless spirit of heritage preservation and innovation.

Introduction

In 2013, Atelier Kempe Thill, in collaboration with Daniel van Doorslaer, secured victory in a competitive bid to construct a new retirement home in Heist-op-den-Berg, Belgium. This article explores the innovative design and thoughtful considerations behind the Ten Kerselaere Residential Care Center.

Embracing the Landscape: A Master Plan Concept

The proposed concept centered around a master plan featuring four elongated urban villas set amidst an open, car-free park. This design harmonized with the rural context of Heist-op-den-Berg while accentuating the horizontal nature of the Flemish landscape. Each villa was designed to cater to specific needs, allowing for a gradual implementation process while reflecting the social complexities of senior care in the modern era.

The First Building: Atrium Living

The initial phase of the project realized a residential complex comprising 36 assistance flats, all wheelchair-accessible. These two-room flats, along with larger three-room options, boasted spacious winter gardens, enabling year-round balcony usage. With a compact design facilitating easy access via staircases and elevators, the building fostered social interaction among residents, particularly within the atrium—a focal point of communal activity.

Harmonizing Hard and Soft Elements

The architectural character of the Ten Kerselaere Residential Care Center was defined by high-quality prefabricated concrete elements and sleek glass facades. Anthracite-colored concrete components complemented by sliding glass elements created a modern aesthetic, while sand-colored tiles and glass railings infused warmth and openness into the interior spaces. This delicate balance of materials and colors contributed to a homely atmosphere within the facility.

Achieving Efficiency Without Compromise

Despite operating within standard budget constraints, the project prioritized efficiency and quality. The compact typology minimized facade surface area and development costs, allowing for the integration of luxurious features such as extensive winter gardens and a communal atrium. By streamlining building services and material choices, Atelier Kempe Thill delivered a prototype that met the diverse needs of residents without sacrificing architectural excellence.

Conclusion: A Visionary Model for Senior Care

The Ten Kerselaere Residential Care Center stands as a testament to innovative design principles and a deep understanding of senior living needs. Through thoughtful planning and meticulous attention to detail, Atelier Kempe Thill has redefined the paradigm of retirement home construction, setting a new standard for quality, accessibility, and community engagement in senior care facilities.

Nestled amidst the serene landscape of Zalacsány, Hungary, the Wellness Pavilion emerges as a harmonious blend of architectural sophistication and natural beauty. This pavilion, designed by ARCHIKON ARCHITECTS, seamlessly integrates into its surroundings, offering a haven for well-being and tranquility. From the moment visitors set foot on its grounds, they are greeted by a sense of serenity, cocooned within the lush greenery that envelops the structure.

Fusion of Architecture and Landscape

At its core, the Wellness Pavilion embodies a deep reverence for the intrinsic connection between architectural design and the natural environment. The architects have artfully crafted a space that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, utilizing natural materials and organic geometries inspired by the site. Inside, lightweight timber frames create an inviting ambiance, while the exterior facade, clad in burnt timber, elegantly merges the pavilion with its verdant surroundings.

Immersive Wellness Experience

Designed to provide visitors with a holistic wellness experience, the pavilion boasts a diverse range of amenities while ensuring a seamless connection with the outdoors. Within its walls, guests can indulge in an adventure pool, relax in the sauna area, and luxuriate in separate massage units. A dedicated catering space offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, allowing guests to savor their meals amidst the breathtaking scenery. During the warmer months, the expansive outdoor area transforms into a vibrant hub for leisure activities, complete with a refreshing water surface that enhances the overall atmosphere of relaxation.

Architectural Harmony

The architectural integrity of the Wellness Pavilion extends beyond its aesthetic appeal, with careful consideration given to its structural framework. Constructed atop a reinforced concrete partial basement, the pavilion features a laminated plywood timber frame that mirrors the gentle undulations of the landscape. The curved roof, clad in sheet metal, further accentuates the organic flow of the surroundings, creating a seamless transition between the built environment and nature.

A Retreat for Well-being

More than just a structure, the Wellness Pavilion serves as a retreat where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and reconnect with nature. Through thoughtful material choices and strategic programming, the pavilion fosters an atmosphere of tranquility and rejuvenation. As guests immerse themselves in the myriad offerings of the wellness center, they are reminded of the transformative power of architecture deeply rooted in the natural world.

In conclusion, the Zalacsány Wellness Pavilion stands as a testament to the profound symbiosis between architectural design and landscape integration. By embracing the beauty of its surroundings, this pavilion exemplifies the transformative potential of architecture in fostering well-being and serenity.

Introduction

In the heart of Ubud, Indonesia, Pablo Luna Studio has crafted a sanctuary for wellbeing and wellness known as the Yoga & Spa. This architectural marvel celebrates the harmonious relationship between physical, mental, and spiritual practices, drawing inspiration from the fluid movements of nature and the ancient art of yoga.

Fluid Architecture

The architecture of the Yoga & Spa is a testament to fluidity and grace, mirroring the gentle movements of surrounding flora. Bamboo arched frames adorn the structure, seamlessly blending with the captivating views of the natural landscape.

Multifunctional Spaces

Spread across two stories and spanning 196 m², the building boasts a circular first floor enclosed by polished concrete walls and adorned with elegant bamboo details. Within this space, three distinct zones offer diverse experiences, including massage sessions, dance classes, art workshops, and pottery areas.

Tranquil Retreat

The second floor houses a semi-open bathroom adorned with bamboo structures and stone details, offering a serene retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. An elegant spiral bamboo staircase leads to the Yoga Shala, a sacred space designed for inner exploration and connection with nature.

Open-air Yoga Shala

The Yoga Shala adopts an open-air concept, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in 360-degree panoramic views of Ubud’s lush landscape. Bamboo arches frame the space, while a skylight in the center illuminates the room, creating a tranquil ambiance for yoga practice.

Cultivating Mindfulness

Surrounded by the beauty of bamboo and the natural splendor of Ubud, Bali, the Yoga Shala becomes a sanctuary for mindfulness and balance. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the present moment, harmonizing their practice with the elements of nature.

Conclusion

The Yoga & Spa in Ubud, Indonesia, stands as a testament to the transformative power of architecture in fostering wellbeing and wellness. Through its fluid design and harmonious integration with nature, this space invites visitors to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace, transcending the boundaries of the physical and the spiritual.

Introduction

Healthcare architecture plays a crucial role in providing essential services to communities, ensuring comfort, and fostering a sense of belonging. In Cartagena, Spain, Estudio Huma has exemplified this ethos through its innovative design of small-scale healthcare facilities.

Serving Beyond Materialization

The essence of healthcare architecture lies in its ability to serve above all else. Estudio Huma’s creation of changing rooms with laundry facilities at the port of Cartagena exemplifies this dedication to service. These facilities cater to individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering solace and comfort to those far from home.

Creating Solid Ground

Amidst the constant sway of the sea, individuals yearn for stability and familiarity. The changing rooms constructed by Estudio Huma serve as a metaphorical anchor, providing a sense of solidity and warmth. Through basic functions like personal hygiene, these spaces aim to recreate the familiarity of home, fostering a cozy and welcoming environment.

Recognition and Domestication

Daily routines within these spaces serve as a form of self-recognition and domestication of public space. Simple acts like brushing teeth or combing hair become rituals of comfort and familiarity, bridging the gap between the foreign and the familiar.

Beauty in Smallness

Despite its modest size, the dressing room building stands out amidst its surroundings, much like a boat amidst larger vessels. Its design speaks to the service it provides, offering intimacy and privacy to its users while remaining a symbol of beauty and functionality.

Dynamic Design Elements

Estudio Huma’s attention to detail is evident in the dynamic design elements incorporated into the changing rooms. The use of natural resin slats creates a facade that interacts with light, mimicking the movement of rigging in the wind and adding a sense of dynamism to the structure.

Embracing the Sea

The sea remains a constant presence within the changing rooms, symbolized by a large window oriented towards its expanse. This integration of nature into the built environment fosters a sense of connection and unity, transcending the isolation often associated with maritime life.

Balancing Act

The architecture of the changing rooms reflects a delicate balance between solidity and mobility. Despite its proximity to the sea, the structure remains firmly grounded, providing stability amidst the fluidity of its surroundings.

A Tribute to Maritime Heritage

Embedded within the walls of the changing rooms are stories of maritime life, paying homage to the architectures of the past that served humanity at sea. Through its design, Estudio Huma celebrates the legacy of structures like baths and dressing rooms, acknowledging their vital role in maritime history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Estudio Huma’s healthcare architecture in Cartagena, Spain, serves as a testament to the power of design in fostering comfort, stability, and connection. By blending functionality with innovation, these changing rooms offer a glimpse into the intersection of architecture and human experience, providing a beacon of solace amidst the vastness of the sea.

Bringing New Energy

In the heart of Purmerend, Netherlands, stands the Wheerlicht Apartments, a testament to architectural innovation and community revitalization. Designed by GVA Architecten, this striking building breathes new life into an outdated neighborhood, garnering praise from both new and existing residents.

A Glimpse into Urban Planning

Situated just 25 kilometers from Amsterdam, Purmerend boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Originally a quaint fishing village nestled among marshes and lakes, it evolved into a bustling commercial hub by the 18th century. The post-World War II era saw Purmerend transform into a burgeoning municipality, characterized by modernist housing developments aimed at accommodating Amsterdam’s housing shortage.

Transforming Abandonment into Opportunity

At the intersection of Churchillaan, where the roads intertwine, once stood an abandoned social neighborhood center. Now, rising from its ashes, stands the Wheerlicht Apartments—a beacon of modernity comprising 52 residences, a 500 m2 medical center, and an underground parking facility. This transformation injects vitality into the neighborhood, bridging the gap between the past and the future.

Architectural Expression and Innovation

The architecture of Wheerlicht Apartments is a fusion of expression and functionality. Its distinctive design features a towering six-story head and a four-story body, symbolizing optimism and energy. The façade, adorned with alternating open and closed sections, exudes both strength and warmth. White concrete elements add depth and dimension, creating a play of light and shadow that animates the building’s exterior.

Harmonizing with Nature

Surrounded by lush greenery and serene water bodies, Wheerlicht Apartments offer residents a tranquil oasis amidst urban life. Each residence boasts generous outdoor spaces, seamlessly integrating with the natural environment. Sturdy balconies with a mother-of-pearl reflection evoke a sense of elegance and sophistication, inviting residents to unwind and connect with nature.

Sustainable Living at its Core

Embracing sustainable practices, Wheerlicht Apartments are designed to minimize environmental impact. Connected to an urban heating network powered by waste heat, the residences eschew traditional gas heating in favor of underfloor heating. This commitment to sustainability reflects a forward-thinking approach to modern living, ensuring a greener future for generations to come.

Conclusion

In essence, Wheerlicht Apartments epitomize the convergence of architectural excellence, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. As a beacon of revitalization, it not only transforms physical spaces but also fosters a sense of belonging and well-being among its residents. With its bold design and sustainable ethos, Wheerlicht Apartments set a new standard for urban living in Purmerend and beyond.

Crafting a Sanctuary of Wellness

Nestled in the heart of Knokke-Heist, Belgium, the Warm Nest Healthcare Center stands as a beacon of hope and healing. Designed by ARCHEKTA in collaboration with Ark-shelter, this center embodies a holistic approach to healthcare, prioritizing the well-being of patients and their loved ones.

Embracing the Maggie Care Philosophy

Inspired by the Maggie Care philosophy, the Warm Nest Healthcare Center is the first of its kind in Belgium. Rooted in principles of user experience (UX) and neuroscience, the design team, led by Menno, sought to create a space that nurtures the mind, body, and soul. Drawing from extensive research, including the works of John Paul Eberhard and Juhani Pallasmaa, they aimed to address the diverse needs of patients on their healing journey.

A Sanctuary of Comfort and Connection

At the core of the design is the concept of “a warm nest” — a sanctuary where patients and their families can find solace and support. From the soft ramp entrance to the communal spaces adorned with natural light, every detail is crafted to evoke feelings of comfort and tranquility. The building seamlessly integrates with nature, offering picturesque views and ample daylight to uplift spirits.

Thoughtful Spatial Design

The center’s layout is meticulously planned to cater to the unique needs of each individual. Therapy rooms, adorned with warm wood accents, exude a homely atmosphere, while flexible seating arrangements encourage meaningful connections. The central fireplace and dining area serve as gathering spots, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among patients and staff alike.

Blurring Boundaries, Enhancing Wellness

Through strategic placement of windows and skylights, the building blurs the boundaries between inside and outside, allowing nature to permeate every corner. Therapy rooms are thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light, promoting a sense of openness and serenity. The courtyard, adorned with lush greenery, offers a peaceful retreat for reflection and relaxation.

A Testament to True Sustainability

Beyond its architectural beauty, the Warm Nest Healthcare Center embodies the essence of true sustainability. By prioritizing the well-being of its occupants and minimizing environmental impact, the center sets a new standard for healthcare design. As Menno Cramer, neuroscientist consultant, aptly puts it, “Building a building that doesn’t have a negative impact, and even can be restorative, to give better health to future users and generations — that is a truly sustainable building for life.”

Creating Spaces for Healing

In essence, the Warm Nest Healthcare Center is more than just a building; it’s a sanctuary of hope, healing, and humanity. Through thoughtful design and compassionate care, it offers a beacon of light for those in need, guiding them on their journey to wellness and wholeness.

A Holistic Approach to Retirement Living

Villa Kameleon, nestled in the serene municipality of Zoersel, Belgium, stands as a testament to compassionate care and innovative design. Crafted by FELT architecture & design in collaboration with a private client and the non-profit organization Emmaus, this care home caters to the needs of the family’s granddaughter and eight other residents with mental disabilities.

Natural Integration and Compact Design

Situated near the Monnikenheide domain, Villa Kameleon seamlessly merges with its verdant surroundings. The architects prioritized preserving the site’s greenery, resulting in a rational and hyper-compact structure featuring a distinctive hexagonal ground plan. Careful positioning within the forest ensures ample natural light while maintaining close proximity to the surrounding trees.

Faceted Façades and Material Harmony

Villa Kameleon’s façades, adorned with light grey plaster and green glazed tiles, create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. This thoughtful use of materials and rhythm breaks down the building’s volume, establishing a harmonious relationship with its environment from all angles.

Warm and Welcoming Interiors

Inside, a warm and inviting palette sets the tone for communal living. A central hall, adorned with a spiral staircase, serves as the heart of the home, surrounded by six identical studios on the first floor. The ground floor houses communal areas and three additional studios, prioritizing accessibility for all residents.

Functional Layout and Natural Light Integration

To counter the traditional rectangular layout often found in healthcare architecture, each studio is strategically positioned at a corner of the hexagonal plan. This unique arrangement offers dual orientation and panoramic views of the landscape. Bathrooms, thoughtfully placed along the façades, maximize natural daylight, enhancing the residents’ well-being.

Illuminating the Heart of the Home

A dome crowning the central hall illuminates the interior, providing glimpses of the sky and treetops. This architectural feature not only floods the space with natural light but also fosters a connection to the surrounding natural beauty, enriching the residents’ living experience at Villa Kameleon.

In essence, Villa Kameleon embodies a harmonious blend of care, comfort, and connection with nature, redefining retirement living with empathy and innovation.

Vanke Xi An Club, situated on the picturesque shores of Fuxian Lake in Yuxi City, China, stands as a testament to harmony with nature and holistic wellness. Designed by gad architects, with interior design by Matrix Design and landscape by gdi Design, this architectural marvel offers a blend of recreation, training, and wellbeing facilities spread across 4,740 square meters.

Integration with Nature

The project seamlessly integrates with the pristine natural landscape, utilizing the existing topography and majestic views of Fuxian Lake. Leveraging the terrain’s natural slopes, the design gracefully extends downward, minimizing ecological impact. The undulating roof mimics the gentle waves of the lake, creating a harmonious dialogue with the surrounding environment.

Modular Spatial Design

Vanke Xi An Club employs a modular approach to spatial design, utilizing box-like structures to house various amenities such as a swimming pool, yoga room, gym center, library, art gallery, and a coffee shop. These modular units not only conceal equipment but also define boundaries and guide flow seamlessly. Each area’s unique shape facilitates the integration of spa, fitness, entertainment, reading, and art exhibition spaces, offering users a cohesive and immersive experience.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection

A hallmark of the design is the blurred boundary between interior and exterior spaces. Expansive glass curtain walls invite natural light and panoramic views of the lake, while multiple sunlight patios bathe the interior in warmth and brightness. This open spatial arrangement allows light and air to permeate freely, fostering a sense of tranquility akin to being in a natural cave.

Conclusion: A Haven of Wellness

Vanke Xi An Club stands as a sanctuary where architecture, landscape, and wellness converge harmoniously. By embracing nature and promoting a seamless indoor-outdoor experience, this architectural gem offers a holistic retreat for recreation, training, and wellbeing amidst the serene beauty of Fuxian Lake.