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Copenhagen, DK

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Haukeland Children and Youth Hospital

Haukeland children and youth hospital is a pioneering project that unites expertise in pediatric and adolescent care within a facility that not only pushes architectural boundaries but also sets new standards in the entire design and construction process. Stage 2 of the project stands out as the world's first completely digital hospital project, where planning and construction are completely paperless. 

KHR has been working on the new pediatric hospital for Helse Bergen HF since 2006. This project unfolds in two stages and is an integral part of Haukeland University Hospital. The first phase, spanning 28,000 square meters, is home to child and adolescent psychiatry and was completed in 2016. The somatic aspect of the pediatric hospital forms a part of the second phase, encompassing 50,000 square meters, and accommodates a maternity clinic for pregnant women. This second phase, characterized by its paperless operation, is anticipated to conclude in 2023. 

The hospital's overarching philosophy places a strong emphasis on creating an environment that supports healing of both body and soul. The facilities for play, exercise, and physical activity serve as the core of the hospital's design concept, providing an innovative atmosphere where the needs of patients are at the forefront. This holistic approach promotes social sustainability by bridging traditional disciplines, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages research and education. 

The hospital's architecture incorporates the scenic Norwegian nature into its design, drawing it in through windows, passages, and courtyards. The verdant landscapes of western Norway seamlessly extend into the facility, connecting the surrounding mountains, the hospital's outdoor spaces, and the park-like Møllendal Cemetery located by the water. 

The hospital buildings are thoughtfully arranged as "lamellae" across the contours of the landscape. The staggered positioning of these buildings allows an abundance of natural light to permeate the structure and create a harmonious interplay between the built environment and the natural landscape. Green roofs, terraces, and play areas flow between these lamellae, fostering a sense of openness and breaking down the hospital's mass into more approachable units where users can find comfort.

The pediatric hospital is impressively sustainable with its energy-efficient design, achieving a remarkable A energy rating and meeting passive house standards. It has received 39 million NOK in support for green initiatives from the Enova Foundation in Norway. By emphasizing carbon emissions reduction, the project has achieved a 30% decrease compared to conventional practices, thanks in part to the use of 1000 square meters of transparent solar panels on the facade and 165 geothermal wells.

To enhance functionality and comfort, the hospital features custom birch plywood furniture. This unique furniture not only brings a cozy atmosphere to the clinical setting but also serves multiple purposes, such as providing a bed for relatives, a workspace, and a sense of privacy. From the outside, this furniture subtly lines the building, while from the inside, it softens the vast windows and contributes to the well-being of those inside.

 
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Status: Built
Location: Haukeland, NO
Firm Role: Architect
Additional Credits: PKA Architects, Rambøll Architecture, Landskap Trondheim, Schønherr Landscape