Healthcare Design: Introducing nature into care

With the world waking up to the concept of sustainability, the meaning is definitely not lost on SOM Architects. The designers have come up with yet another architectural marvel, introducing nature into healing. The proposed Jurong General Hospital in Singapore mentored by the National Health Group invites nature into the built space introducing sustainability into healthcare, playing to the sensitivity of the patient, keeping in mind the holistic healing and health.

The proposal

The proposed hospital falls under Jurong Lake District, which includes homes, offices and shopping pockets. The healthcare centre shall consist of a 700- bed general hospital, a more affordable 200- bed community hospital, outpatient departments, emergency wards and various other facilities aiming towards a wholesome and holistic approach towards healthcare.
The design

Two major elements, a diagnostic centre with gardens on the rooftop and a multistoried tower with outpatient departments overlooking the terrace make the hospital complex. The height attained treats the patients with views of the lake and green space around it.The gardens and green lungs help cut down on the noise pollution and enhance fresh air into the complex. The terrace gardens and interwoven landscaped pockets introduce a serene and peaceful healing environment to the patients. The horizontal windows will allow natural light into the building.
Sustainable approach

Interlinking gardens and landscaping into the facility is the approach undertaken. Patients will be kept in the “healing sanctuary”, kept as closet o the nature as possible which will speed up the recovery process. Roof top gardens are also being proposed to make up for the building footprint. A striking balance is being attained, thanks to the integrated approach. The sky garden also harvests its own fruits and vegetables for the use of the hospital furthering its self dependence. The presence of so many green belts also facilitates the rain water harvesting keeping the ground water levels optimum.
The hospital has a LEED Platinum rating as it respond to the humid climate of Singapore effectively. The mechanical, electrical and HVAC systems, all have been designed so as to not harm the local climate.
“Healing with Nature”

Sustainability in healthcare is being seen as a new dimension to both environmental friendly construction as well as healthcare. This new approach will open new doors into “healing with nature”.

 http://www.ecofriend.com/entry/healthcare-design-introducing-nature-into-care/