Building for Community: UBS Parque do Riacho

Saboia+Ruiz Arquitetos present their innovative project for the UBS Parque do Riacho, a primary healthcare center designed to serve the local community. Situated amidst the urban fabric of the surrounding area, the project tackles the challenge of adapting to a complex site characterized by high voltage power lines and highways, all while maximizing the available space to create a functional and welcoming environment for patients.

Integrating Urban Spaces

The design approach revolves around two key principles: the exterior urban spaces and the interior functional humanization. To address the need for connectivity and cohesion within the urban context, the project features three distinct rectangular blocks that delineate the external area and create private inner courtyards. This strategy not only amplifies the volume of the building but also establishes a clear identity for the healthcare facility, ensuring its visibility and accessibility within the neighborhood.

Courtyards for Tranquility

The inner courtyards play a crucial role in humanizing the built environment, offering a serene and secluded atmosphere that promotes tranquility and well-being. Designed on a human scale, these courtyards serve as havens of natural light and greenery, shielding patients from external disturbances while fostering a connection with nature. Despite being conceived before the Covid-19 pandemic, these courtyards now play a vital role in providing adequate ventilation to spaces with large groups of people, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for patients and staff alike.

Accessible Design

Accessibility is prioritized throughout the healthcare center, with ramps and elevators facilitating universal access across different levels of the building. The layout is divided into distinct sectors within each block, with the main entrance serving as a central hub that guides visitors to various facilities. By carefully zoning different functions and services, the design minimizes functional conflicts and creates a welcoming atmosphere across all spaces, from reception areas to medical consultation rooms.

Sustainable Solutions

In addition to functional considerations, the project incorporates a range of sustainable features to enhance environmental performance and energy efficiency. Rainwater harvesting systems collect water for irrigation purposes, while the double-skin facade regulates temperature and natural light levels. Passive ventilation strategies, coupled with thoughtful landscaping and shading devices, further contribute to the building’s comfort and sustainability, reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems and minimizing environmental impact.

Structural Innovation

The structural system employs a combination of reinforced concrete slabs and steel columns, creating a robust and efficient framework that supports the building’s distinctive form. Elevated floor slabs and flat trusses ensure flexibility and ease of installation for building systems, while circular steel columns provide structural stability and aesthetic appeal. This innovative approach to construction allows for adaptability and future-proofing, ensuring the longevity and resilience of the healthcare center.

Conclusion

UBS Parque do Riacho stands as a testament to Saboia+Ruiz Arquitetos’ commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable, and user-centric spaces for the community. By seamlessly integrating architectural innovation with functional pragmatism, the project redefines the role of healthcare facilities in urban environments, fostering a sense of connection, well-being, and belonging for all who interact with it. As a beacon of health, hope, and healing, the healthcare center embodies the values of compassion, dignity, and accessibility, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.