Explore the ‘S Spine Hospital’ Designing a Hospital as a Spaceship
Architectural Challenges and Client-Centric Design The fundamental principle for mArchten involves crafting designs that originate from the client’s vision. This particular project posed a unique challenge: to redefine the conventional image of a hospital while embedding the distinctive identity of the project owner into every square meter.
A Hospital That Mirrors Its Identity
The initial concept of creating “a hospital unlike any other” was inspired by Dr. Nitipong Boonamphol, a renowned surgeon and director of Thailand's premier hospital specialized in spinal and neurological issues. Beyond his medical prowess, Dr. Nitipong harbors a deep interest in science and technology, particularly space exploration, and is an avid art collector. These eclectic interests are intricately woven into the hospital's design, ensuring that each space resonates with elements reflecting his passions, creating a cohesive and personalized environment.
Comfortable Healing, Easing Anxiety
The first design inspiration draws from the vastness of space, utilizing a futuristic facade that challenges traditional hospital aesthetics. Incorporating Dr. Nitipong's art collection further enhances this transformation, fostering a soothing ambiance that minimizes anxiety and provides a platform for interaction and connection. This approach goes beyond conventional care, intending to offer patients an enriched experience.
Facade Inspired by Human Bones
Further extending this innovative approach, the design of the hospital's facade takes inspiration from the hospital's specialization in orthopedics and neurology. The designers abstracted the anatomical forms of bones into the building's outer shell, simplifying these elements to create a striking focal point accentuated by blue tones and glass finishes. This distinctive facade draws the attention of passersby, inviting intrigue and interest from every angle.
Hidden Design Playfulness
Beyond the bone-inspired exterior, the design team's creative vision extends into the hospital's interior spaces. They introduced playful design elements, replicating the organic shapes of cells and freeform bones, adding fluidity and dynamism to critical components like the ceiling. Hidden lighting and rounded furniture complement this design, responding to the architectural curves and modernizing the interior atmosphere.
A Spaceship on the Rooftop
The rooftop area presents a thematic extension of space exploration, envisioned as a unique relaxation zone that offers visitors an experiential escape. This space doubles as an art installation, seamlessly integrated into the landscape design, creating the illusion of a spacecraft nestled amidst a distant, forested planet, offering users an unforgettable experience.
Maximizing Every Square Meter
Despite the hospital’s sprawling grounds, the development aims to serve as a comprehensive hub for specialized spinal and neurological care. The architectural team meticulously researched construction methodologies and space planning to optimize the usage of every square meter, ensuring functional efficiency and maximizing the utility of the available space.
Status: Under Construction
Location: Bangkok, TH
Firm Role: Architect
Additional Credits: Project location: Lat Phrao 84, Wang Thonglang, Bangkok
Lead Architect: Akapatr Chiraarreebutr
Project Architect: Teerada Tubtimthong, Kanyarat Janjammongkol
Interior Designer: Kannika Kaewopas, Sittichoke Chaipakdee, Panithan Pinsayoung, Natthamon khamdam
Landscape Designer: MOODS DESIGN Co., ltd.
Electrical Engineer: Nueanapha Witithanon, Chaiprasit Kokiatcharen
Structural Engineer: Watcharaphong Prasankliao
Sanitary Engineer: Anunat Kamphaengseri