news

Building to Heal: New Architecture for Hospitals

Monday Jan 29, 2024

Recently, the Architekturmuseum der TUM (in Munich) organized the exhibition 'Building to Heal: New Architecture for Hospitals', focusing on the emergence and success of the concept of healing architecture in hospital design. The Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology was one of the thirteen innovative international projects showcased here. This project is not only about aspects such as efficiency and effectiveness but mainly about the well-being of patients, their families, and healthcare professionals.

Case study: how design promotes health and well-being
How does architecture at the Princess Máxima Centre contribute to the How does architecture at the Princess Máxima Centre contribute to patients' recovery? What has a positive effect on the health and well-being of users here? Three examples of what works:

  1. For the first time in the Netherlands, specialized care and scientific research for pediatric oncology have been brought together in one location. This collaboration has already significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for children with cancer. This synergy can be felt in the building itself, where, for example, the main route serves as a meeting place for healthcare professionals, patients, and their families.

  2. How do you design a hospital that doesn't look and feel clinical? The result is a building that exudes optimism and offers a child-friendly environment. This is evident in the facade, where the white exterior is reminiscent of the coats of healthcare professionals, while the colored, vertical bands refer to the scientific research taking place inside. This facade attracts attention and is constantly changing.

  3. This center features parent-child rooms with a balcony. It creates a home, so to speak; with its own room (plus facilities) for the sick child and with those of the parents next door. You can be there together, and seek quiet or privacy by closing the sliding wall. The design thus supports daily family life in a practical way. It also creates a homely atmosphere. This design thus encourages normal life.

Publication
This exhibition was accompanied by a publication of the same name. This book, 'Building to Heal: New Architecture for Hospitals', deals with innovations in healthcare, including designs, essays, and scientific research to prove their success. Are you curious about the article on the Princess Máxima Centre? You can read the article here:

Related cases

Curious about an architecture story that will make you happy?

get in touch