GARDEN VOID HOSPITAL - SEMARANG
A walk in the forest to heal oneself. Our idea for the Kariadi Hospital stems from the question whether today’s modern ultra clean hygienic and germophobic environment has become too depressing for the well being and the healing process of the patients. Thus for this we have explored how architecture can contribute to the well-being of the patients through natural, landscape and material atmosphere. The building within is introduced with a continuous void atrium to bring in natural light and ventilation while also being a circulation spine. In consultation with GWTS the ends of the void is punctured with operable windows to enable cross ventilation and the skylight also acts as a wind catcher with the aid of several large industrial fans. The void is dotted with numerous integrated concrete planterboxes for plants to overgrow, reminiscing of the Hanging Gardens. The gentle full-height water wall brings a soothening atmosphere with the sound of water and movement. Timber is used as some internal lining and for external sunshading louvers to offset the coldness of steel, glass and concrete. Looking out the climbing plants are grown with wires on the outside while also softens the edges of the building facade. On the ground floor a double height lobby for the waiting relatives and friends - with soft light from the polycarbonate cladding. The emergency area is basked in the glow of the red tinted glass, complimenting the local material of the terracotta cladding and brick paving and driveway outside. Brick and terracotta links to the garden outside, connecting the void and the outdoor tropical garden. The brick path leads to the Tree of Life, a large feature rain tree which one can sit around and gather and ponder.
Team: Raymond W, Lee YY, Chua HZ, GWTS Melbourne
