Located in the southern part of Sweden, the competition to design the 35,000 square metre extension to the Helsingborg Hospital has just been won by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects. In cooperation with Aarhus Arkitekterne, NNE Pharmaplan and landscape architects Kragh & Berglund, the key to the whole design has been flexibility, a clear layout, variety, human scale, green courtyards and optimal conditions for daylight. The extension will include a new ward for adult psychiatry, an out-patient clinic and medical laboratories. More images and architects' description after the break.
The building is flexible and therefore sustainable with regards to future demands for changing use and functions. It has a uniform sculptural expression, which adapts to the various functionality needs but at the same time corresponds with the scale of the surrounding buildings. The shifting and indented façade creates varying spaces and makes it possible to adapt the structure with open and closed parts depending on the functions behind it.
A hallway makes up the spine of the building and gathers together the different functions in a clear fashion. It has the double function of a dynamic urban street with a fine net of intersections, squares and views to green courtyards. In the psychiatric ward, the emphasis is on an environment that allows for both relaxation and activities. This will have both a calming and inspiring effect on the patients, who are thereby challenged in a secure setting. The layout of the ward is clear, and the green roofs establish a distinct, undisturbed landscape. The composition of the bed wards creates sheltered, inner courtyards signalling calm and safety. From the upper levels, the patients have a panoramic view over the city and Oresund, which in turn affords plenty of daylight in the rooms.
The layout of the main functions of the building minimizes walking distances, optimizes daily operations and adjusts to the special needs of the different areas of activity.
The extension to the Helsingborg Hospital is the third hospital competition won by schmidt hammer lassen architects since 2010. In 2012, the practice won the competition for the New Aalborg University Hospital as part of the Indigo consortium, and in 2010 the extension to the Kolding Hospital – both in Denmark.
Architects: Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects
Location: Helsingborg, Sweden
Sub-Consultants: Aarhus Arkitekterne, NNE Pharmaplan
Landscape Architects: Kragh & Berglund Stockholm
Client: Region Skåne, Regionservice (Sweden)
Area: Approx. 35,000 m2
Competition Status: 1st Prize in restricted competition
Year: 2013
