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Description submitted by the project team. Glasblokkene, at the Haukeland University Hospital in Bergen, is the embodiment of an ambitious vision of a comprehensive pediatric and women’s hospital, in which all knowledge related to childhood, youth and women converges in a single center. The holistic view of the patient, which encompasses both physical and mental challenges and follows the patient throughout their life into adulthood, innovates the way health services are offered to children. Composed of eight blocks of buildings, Glasblokkene was completed in two phases; the second phase will open in December 2023. It is one of the first hospital construction projects in the world that is fully digital and therefore efficient in the use of resources. The attention paid from the beginning to energy efficiency and sustainability has resulted in numerous green solutions and the best energy label on the market.
Architectural vision: The architectural concept focuses on creating a human and welcoming environment. By breaking down the mass of the building into narrow tangents, the hospital integrates into its surroundings and allows natural light to flow abundantly into the interior. This design approach ensures a human scale, offering visitors an immediate understanding of the warm and welcoming atmosphere that awaits within. The location of the blocks, on a green hillside, reinforces the connection between outside and inside, drawing nature inside for a healing impact. Child-centered design: A primary goal at Glasblokkene is to let kids be kids, even when they’re patients. The hospital prioritizes spaces for physical activity and relaxation, promoting an environment in which the emphasis is not only on medical functions, but also on well-being. The main entrance features a play area, which encourages positive energy with active children visible through the windows upon arrival at the hospital. Bespoke Interior Design: To enhance the overall experience, Glasblokkene incorporates custom designed furniture using warm, natural materials and vibrant colours. All patient rooms include an extra bed for parents or partners, showing that family needs are taken into account. This personalized approach aims to minimize institutional features and create a space where patients, staff and visitors can thrive.
Fluidity and functionality: The building’s blocks create clear orientation with separate flows for public and staff, and each block is assigned a different color that is used inside to facilitate orientation. The blocks are interconnected by walkways and, on the ground floor, by lounges, an auditorium and a multipurpose staircase. The materials used create a clear connection between the exterior and the interior. Democratic design: Favoring democratic design, the hospital allocates the corner spaces with the best views to shared functions or isolation rooms. Healing Gardens and Art Integration: Recognizing the therapeutic benefits, Glasblokkene integrates nature and art into its design. Patient rooms and common areas offer views of the natural environment, helping to reduce stress and improve well-being. The hospital gardens, with local vegetation, offer sensory experiences and opportunities for relaxation and movement. Tactile artistic elements, such as “pearls” scattered throughout the grounds, invite exploration, creating a playful and engaging environment within the hospital grounds. The integration of art, both inside and out, enhances aesthetic appeal and opportunities for small adventures.
Bespoke Interior Design. To enhance the overall experience, Glasblokkene incorporates custom-designed furniture in warm, natural materials and vibrant colors. All patient rooms include an extra bed for parents or partners, demonstrating a thoughtful consideration for family needs. This personalized approach aims to minimize institutional features and create a space where patients, staff, and visitors can thrive.
Flow and Functionality. The building blocks create a clear wayfinding with separate flows for the public and staff, where each block is assigned a distinct color, used inside to aid wayfinding. The blocks are interconnected by walkways, and on the ground floor, through lounges, auditorium, and a multipurpose gathering staircase. The materials used create a clear connection between the exterior and interior.
Democratic Design. Favoring democratic design, the hospital allocates corner spaces with the best views for shared functions or isolation rooms.
Healing Gardens and Integration of Art. Recognizing the therapeutic benefits, Glasblokkene integrates nature and art into its design. Patient rooms and common areas offer views of natural surroundings, contributing to stress reduction and improved well-being. The hospital’s gardens feature local vegetation, providing sensory experiences and opportunities for both relaxation and movement. Tactile art elements, like scattered “pearls” around the site invite exploration, creating a playful and engaging environment within the hospital’s grounds. The integration of art, both inside and outside, enhances the aesthetic appeal and opportunities for small adventures.
