17-05-2019

Dutch Design Daily

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EGM architecten www.egm.nl

Erasmus MC

By 17-05-2019

Nominated for BNA Best building of the year 2019
Category Stimulating Environments

The new construction of the Erasmus Medical Center transforms the academic hospital from a collection of separate buildings to a medical center where the patient is central everywhere. Atria, public areas, greenery and views give the building identity, create intimate places and ensure a healing and healthy building to stay and to work.

To give the large building its human dimension, the public area is divided into streets and squares, with nameplates. Clear benchmarks such as reception desks, monumental art and inviting seats have been used to show the way in a natural manner. The abundance of greenery along ongoing routes offers orientation as well as shelter. Waiting areas and staircases are situated along the façade, with a view of the city, atria, greenery or roof garden.

At places where it is impossible to have any daylight or views, deepened patios, biometric light, sky ceilings and wall-filling photo prints create a stress-reducing environment. This has a proven calming effect in Radiotherapy, Emergency Department and Intensive Care and also the number of incidents at the Emergency Department has significantly dropped after being put into use.

The concept of healingis perhaps most prominent in the single-patient rooms. Daylight, greenery, wooden window frames, low fitted wardrobes and quiet colors create a welcoming, almost homely atmosphere.

Photos: Ossip van Duivenbode, Rob van Esch