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Porous Concrete Façade and Vertical Greenery Define Sustainable Urban Healthcare Facility

Author:
Svetlana Kizilova
Porous Concrete Façade and Vertical Greenery Define Sustainable Urban Healthcare Facility

Project in-detail

With a porous concrete façade and integrated sky gardens, the design optimizes natural ventilation and greenery, creating a functional vertical healthcare facility in the heart of São Paulo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Porous concrete façade enhances natural ventilation and reduces energy consumption.
02
Integrated sky gardens provide therapeutic spaces for patients and staff.
03
Vertical layout minimizes land use while improving accessibility and workflow.
04
High-performance glazing maximizes solar energy capture and reduces glare.
05
Dedicated research laboratories support innovative healthcare solutions on-site.
The Covision Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil, serves as a modern response to evolving healthcare needs in urban environments, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This architectural project is designed as a vertical hospital, strategically utilizing limited urban space to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions. The building's unique form and function reflect a commitment to efficient land use while optimizing the delivery of medical services.

The hospital's architectural design emphasizes verticality, which allows for the stacking of critical healthcare functions such as patient rooms, treatment facilities, and research laboratories. This arrangement not only conserves ground space but also facilitates swift access between floors, enhancing operational efficiency. The incorporation of natural light through an innovative double-layered façade improves patient comfort while reducing energy consumption.

Strategic integration of greenery is one of the notable aspects of this project. Sky gardens populate various levels, creating outdoor spaces for patients and staff, which contributes to both mental well-being and physical health. These gardens enhance the aesthetic value of the hospital, providing a natural respite in an urban context.

Another distinctive element is the hospital's use of high-performance materials. The outer façade consists of porous concrete, promoting airflow while offering structural integrity. Internally, high-quality glazing enhances thermal performance and allows diffused daylight to penetrate deep into the building, minimizing reliance on artificial lighting.

Architectural plans include designated areas for research and development, positioning the hospital as a center for medical innovation. The incorporation of technology throughout the design reflects a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery, ensuring that Covision Hospital remains adaptable to future demands.

Visitors and healthcare professionals alike can benefit from planned community spaces such as the ground floor lobby and café, which function as gathering points that welcome interaction while maintaining necessary health protocols.

This project showcases the potential of architectural design to address contemporary challenges in healthcare. By emphasizing sustainability, function, and user experience, the Covision Hospital sets a precedent for future developments in urban medical facilities. Readers interested in further exploring the architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas are encouraged to delve deeper into the comprehensive presentation of this project for additional insights.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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