In mid-2024, the Eijkman Clinic, a treatment center for oral surgery and cosmetic facial surgery, was completed. The new building was supposed to function as a landmark in the neighborhood, but also provide a green and secure environment - a healing environment - for patients. With that task in mind, atelier PRO designed a clinic that is representative and relaxing.
A recognisable and dynamic “gatehouse”
The new treatment center is located on the southwest edge of Nijkerk, in a district that stands out for its special urban design, with “islands” surrounded by water. The treatment center acts as a representative gatehouse for one of these islands, and was therefore extra eye-catching. That's why we chose to give the building a triangular shape that varies in height in a dynamic way, so that the building is seen differently from every angle. The façade design reinforces this dynamic, with rounded corners, beautifully profiled bronze aluminum panels and white horizontal bands.
Green facades and roof terraces
The volume is tapered, so that each floor has a green roof terrace, with planters around the edges. On the ground floor, climbing plants are placed on the façade so that the building fits nicely into its green surroundings and exudes peace — which is important for the often nervous patients of a dental clinic.
A Japanese garden as a haven within the clinic
The security of the building can be felt from the moment people arrive: the entrance is under a covered bridge and is immediately visible. From there, patients enter the building, where they are immediately welcomed by an employee behind the counter. They then take a seat in a double-height waiting area, where they have a panoramic view of the neighborhood and the surrounding greenery. The four treatment rooms and two x-ray rooms are located around a relaxing patio that is designed as a Japanese garden.
The interior as a healing environment
Thanks to the combination of modern and natural materials, the interior has a 'clean' but at the same time warm appearance. White walls and ceilings, light cast floors and wood paneling and skirting boards combine to create an environment that calms patients. There is an extra corridor behind the treatment rooms that is only accessible to employees; this ensures a clear separation between employees and patients.
This is how, through thoughtful interplay, a healing environment was created.
About the Eijkman Clinic
The Eijkman Clinic is an independent treatment center (ZBC), consisting of a partnership of surgeons who specialize in oral, maxillofacial and oral surgery. In addition to their work for Meander Medical Center and St Jansdal Hospital, they are committed to helping reduce waiting lists in dentistry — reason to set up this new treatment center in Nijkerk.
