The R-Building: a sustainable expansion for Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg Belgium

In the context of a master agreement with Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, the R-building was designed by the team. The multifunctional extension of hospital is designed to house various healthcare functions, such as a rehabilitation center, general practitioner post, outpatient clinics, care center, and consultation rooms. The building also serves as a new entrance and provides connections to other buildings on the site. The goal is to achieve a BREEAM Excellent certification, indicating high sustainability.

The design of the R-building is based on a square floor plan with a clear structure, allowing for maximum flexibility in the future. The modular layout and generic dimensions ensure that the building can be easily adapted to changing needs. This is particularly noticeable in the outpatient clinics, where the treatment rooms are centrally located, and the corridors for doctors and nurses form a ring around these rooms, allowing for views of the outside from both the corridor and the consultation rooms.

The façades are light, both in appearance and weight, contributing to the building’s energy efficiency. The façades are designed to provide an airy healthcare experience with optimal views of the surrounding park. The large rehabilitation room has double-height windows that bring the outside environment inside and offer additional space for exercises. The façade consists of anodized aluminum, creating dynamics and rhythm in the building’s appearance, depending on the direction.

The building is highly accessible, with the main entrance at level -1, clearly visible and easily accessible. Additional entrances are located on other levels, including one for cardio-rehabilitation and outpatient clinics, which are connected via a bridge to the adjacent G-building. The use of four basic materials—concrete, wood, aluminum, and glass—gives the building a warm and soft appearance.