A new kind of hospital will be created in Cairo, Egypt. It was designed to promote contact between patients and nature. And therefore, accelerate their healing.
Foster + Partners has unveiled the first visuals of the future Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center Hospital. The 300-bed hospital will have a shell-shaped roof, reminiscent of the shape of the feluccas that sail the Nile and nestle within in a lush, green landscape that offers views of an artificial lake and, further away, the pyramids of Giza.
The project was designed following the principles of biophilia, our physical and emotional need for nature, which we can satisfy by integrating as many natural materials as possible into our environment. This will include promoting sunlight, greenery and outward views.
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Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center © Foster + Partners -
Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center © Foster + Partners -
Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center © Foster + Partners -
Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center © Foster + Partners
Facilitate patient recovery
As Nigel Dancey, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, explains, “this is a special project that aims to provide patients with the best natural setting for their recovery. (…) It brings together the latest research on biophilia and the positive impact of nature in clinical settings.“
Contact with nature has many advantages in a hospital setting. A beautiful view (here on the pyramids), access to a large garden, the presence of many plants, windows letting in sunlight: all these elements affect the mood and reduce the level of stress. Biophilic architecture aims to reconcile man, buildings and nature. Hence the growing importance of green roofs or green walls in our cities.
The Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center facilities will also include residences for families who want to stay close to the sick, as well as other educational spaces for medical students. The green, tree-lined terrace design is based on local traditions, which encourage residents to stay outside during the cooler periods of the day. Similarly, rich native flora will be introduced into the surrounding park, which will be intertwined with walking paths and spaces conducive to contemplation and recovery. Finally, the hospital will offer free care to disadvantaged people.
The work will be completed in 2023.
Tags: biophilia, Caïro, Foster + partners, Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center
