Siwa Clinic marks a milestone in healthcare architecture, seamlessly integrating functionality, innovation, and well-being. Designed by BAT (Bilbao Architecture Team), this project embodies an integrated vision that merges design, technology, and sustainability to create a cutting-edge medical environment.
The design of Siwa Clinic was driven by a clear objective: to redefine the healthcare experience by creating an environment that conveys calm, trust, and efficiency. The goal was to develop a facility that not only meets the medical and functional needs of healthcare professionals but also enhances patient comfort and perception.
Siwa Clinic is envisioned as a next-generation medical center, offering comprehensive and personalized care with a strong emphasis on technological innovation and holistic well-being. Moving away from traditional hospital models, the design prioritizes an atmosphere where patients feel welcomed and cared for from the moment they arrive.
From the project's inception, BAT worked closely with the Neurosurgery Team at UNB and strategic consultancy SS4C, the conceptual pioneers behind the project. This collaboration between doctors, architects, and strategic consultants was fundamental in applying Clayton Christensen’s theory of disruptive innovation, ensuring a design that responds effectively to both patient and healthcare professional needs with efficient, functional, and adaptable spaces.
As with any healthcare project, Siwa Clinic posed several technical and conceptual challenges that shaped its design:
1. Balancing technology and human-centered design: Creating a highly technological medical environment without making it feel cold or impersonal. The architectural strategy incorporates natural light, warm materials, and an organic spatial distribution.
2. Optimizing circulation flows: Ensuring efficient movement of patients, staff, and materials while maintaining privacy and safety.
3. Sustainability and efficiency: Implementing environmentally conscious solutions, including renewable energy sources and efficient climate control systems.
4. Functional flexibility: Designing modular, adaptable spaces that can evolve alongside medical advancements without requiring major structural modifications.
5. Enhancing the patient experience: Creating an environment that reduces anxiety through comfortable waiting areas, a calming color palette, and green spaces that contribute to overall well-being.
To achieve these objectives, material selection was crucial. The design incorporates solutions that ensure hygiene, durability, and comfort:
• Natural wood and organic elements: Used in waiting areas and reception spaces to introduce warmth and reduce patient stress levels.
• Glass and translucent polycarbonate: Allow natural light to enter while maintaining privacy, creating bright and welcoming environments.
• Antibacterial coatings: Applied to walls and floors in medical areas to ensure optimal hygiene and facilitate easy maintenance.
• Acoustic panels: Integrated into ceilings and walls to enhance acoustic comfort and minimize noise pollution, a crucial factor in healthcare settings.
• Advanced air purification systems: Implemented to ensure continuous air renewal and filtration, maintaining a contaminant- and bacteria-free environment.
Innovation & Sustainability
Siwa Clinic integrates forward-thinking solutions to ensure long-term sustainability. The facility features intelligent energy management systems, low-consumption LED lighting, and a rainwater collection system for irrigation and sanitary use. The architectural design also promotes cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial climate control.
Siwa Clinic exemplifies BAT’s expertise in integrating design, technology, and well-being into highly demanding architectural projects. This project reaffirms our commitment to innovation in healthcare spaces, creating environments that go beyond medical functionality to enhance the quality of life for both patients and professionals.
Team:
Architects: Bat Architecture
Photographer: Erlantz Biderbost
Materials Used:
Flooring: Gerflor
Doors: Imadeco, Manusa
Interior lighting: DUNE 31604, BOW 31105 (Nexia), Bora (Aromas del campo), Cimbra (Ineslam) -> TAO Lighting Studio
Interior furniture: Hari, Lana, Bob, Supra, Dry, Bai, Bob Steel, Sako, Moka, Ginger, Silu, Aia, Mikado, Elle Stand (Ondarreta) Rug Palma (Santos Monteiro)
Planters: Vondom
Medical Area: Grupsa
Switches: Jung
