Redefining Healthcare Architecture: Riells i Viabrea Health Center

Design Concept and Urban Integration

The Riells i Viabrea Health Center, crafted by Comas-Pont arquitectes, reimagines healthcare architecture by seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Situated on the ground level, the center comprises two distinct rectangular programs separated by a linear courtyard, which serves as a conduit for natural landscapes into the building’s heart. The design prioritizes accessibility, with a single entrance that seamlessly extends from the surrounding sidewalks, fostering a sense of continuity with the urban fabric.

Spatial Organization and Programmatic Segregation

The center delineates public and private zones, with the southern section dedicated to public functions and the northern portion reserved for more restricted professional use. The office areas are strategically positioned around the linear courtyard, facilitating ease of navigation and visual connectivity. Moreover, the distribution allows for the creation of dedicated sectors for COVID treatments, ensuring efficient and organized healthcare delivery.

Sustainable Construction: Embracing Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)

Given its typology, usage, and environmental considerations, the Riells i Viabrea Health Center is constructed primarily with cross-laminated timber (CLT). This choice not only underscores the project’s commitment to environmental health but also offers practical advantages in terms of construction ease and efficiency.

Wood and Health: A Synergistic Relationship

Wood, renowned for its environmental and health benefits, takes center stage in the construction of the center. Its porous composition facilitates interstitial ventilation, mitigating the accumulation of harmful gases and promoting a healthier indoor environment. Additionally, wood’s hygroscopic properties regulate humidity levels while serving as a barrier against electromagnetic changes, contributing to the overall well-being of occupants.

Environmental Considerations: Nurturing Ecological Balance

Situated at the foothills of the Montseny Massif, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the center embraces its natural surroundings while promoting ecological stewardship. By utilizing wood in its construction, the center not only pays homage to the adjacent forests but also fosters their economic viability, thus reducing the risk of pests and wildfires. This symbiotic relationship underscores the center’s commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

Construction Efficiency and Technological Innovation

Wood construction offers myriad benefits, including reduced construction time and waste, enhanced product quality, and greater design flexibility. The use of wood systems enables expansive spans, fostering a sense of openness and adaptability in future configurations. Additionally, the incorporation of a ventilated facade, coupled with corrugated lacquered metal sheets, ensures optimal solar protection and privacy while maintaining aesthetic integrity.

Interior Design and Integration with Nature

Inside the center, wooden structures accentuate communal areas, infusing warmth and character into the interior spaces. Office areas feature a harmonious blend of white tiles with wood-colored joints, striking a balance between clinical functionality and human-centric design. Furthermore, the preservation of existing riverbank trees underscores the center’s commitment to environmental conservation and ecosystem preservation.

In essence, the Riells i Viabrea Health Center stands as a testament to innovative design, sustainability, and holistic healthcare delivery. By embracing wood construction and prioritizing environmental health, the center not only redefines traditional notions of healthcare architecture but also fosters a sense of well-being and connection with nature within its walls.