Heart of Gandel Wing: Transformative Healthcare Design
Project's Summary
The Gandel Wing at Cabrini Malvern stands as a testament to modern healthcare design, spearheaded by the esteemed architectural studio Bates Smart. With a remarkable investment of $120 million, this seven-storey facility is meticulously crafted to foster a welcoming and human-centric environment. Central to the design ethos is the commitment to transform the hospital experience, prioritizing patient wellbeing and comfort through innovative architecture and thoughtful integration of technology.
Incorporating state-of-the-art treatment facilities, the Gandel Wing exemplifies cutting-edge healthcare solutions. The building features three levels of basement carparking and a specialized radiotherapy bunker located on level B4, which collectively supports an additional 110 beds. This facility addresses a diverse range of medical needs, including cancer care, cardiac treatment, emergency services, geriatric care, infectious disease management, and maternity services. By utilizing salutogenic principles, the design emphasizes the creation of healing spaces that harmonize with nature and advanced technology, effectively encouraging recovery over mere treatment.
A striking feature of the Gandel Wing is its folded terracotta screen façade, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also aligns with the masonry finishes of adjacent buildings. This architectural choice establishes a highly recognizable anchor for the site while ensuring that patients experience a gentle quality of light indoors. The façade design thoughtfully considers the patient’s perspective, allowing for visual connectivity with the lush, tree-lined surroundings, thus promoting a tranquil atmosphere integral to the healing process.
Internally, bespoke joinery serves the dual purpose of concealing medical service panels and clinical equipment while employing a natural palette of materials. This approach envelops patients in a warm, comforting ambiance that is crucial for their mental and emotional wellbeing. The strategic use of materials such as timber and stone not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the space but also contributes to a serene environment that supports the healing journey of patients and their families.
In conclusion, the Gandel Wing at Cabrini Malvern redefines healthcare design by placing the patient experience at the forefront. This innovative facility is a prime example of how thoughtful architectural design can significantly enhance the healthcare experience. By creating a nurturing, human-centric environment, the Gandel Wing exemplifies the potential for architecture to positively impact the lives of all who enter its doors, making it a landmark project in the evolution of healthcare facilities.
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