link arkitektur and 3XN propose award-winning hospital extension in denmark

the project designed by link arkitektur and 3XN takes shape as a north wing extension to denmark’s largest hospital, rigshospitalet. the project seeks to achieve building openness, transparency, security, and humanism, while also creating an enduring and flexible solution that can adapt to future developments in the area of hospital operations. healing architecture has been the guiding principle at all levels for the north wing as the design aspires to actively encourage the recovery and healing of each patient.all images adam mørk © link arkitektur

the extension by link arkitektur and 3XN, in collaboration with nickl & partner, sweco and kristine jensens tegnestue was honored with an award in the category ‘healthcare design over 25,000 sqm’, commissioned by the hospital. the project demonstrates high levels of sustainability and urban integration, creates an effective clinical environment, promotes service improvement, and provides a supportive environment for staff, patients, and their families. by implementing private rooms, noise-reducing acoustics, ample daylight, and inspirational works of art, the building has been given identity, warmth, and a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

the basic architectural design is a cohesive V-shaped structure supported by two main axes, ensuring short distances and easy navigation. the structure includes 209 rooms, 33 operating theatres, an intensive care section for neurological and neurosurgical patients, outpatient consultation rooms, office spaces, conference areas, and changing facilities. furthermore, five atriums create a peaceful recreational space for patients and visitors, whereas the corridor provides an efficient thoroughfare for optimal hospital logistics.

moreover, the shape contributes to harness natural daylight and create a visual connection to the green urban areas just outside the window. to simplify orientation, each floor has its dedicated color scheme applied to doors, flooring, and selected walls. artworks strategically located in the atria, outdoors, and high circulation areas, bring color and life into the building, softening the traditionally sterile hospital environment.

the result is a building that is pleasant to visit and easy to navigate, providing patients with optimal conditions for recovery and wellbeing. ‘this award is a hallmark of our special competences within healthcare design, and we are immensely proud to receive this recognition from some of the world’s most esteemed professionals. at link, we have designed some of the largest and most impactful healthcare projects in the nordic region and we are looking forward to utilizing our knowledge and experience on a greater international scale as well. there is a huge potential for healthcare design that places the patient front and centre.’ stated nordic healthcare to the world director of healthcare at LINK arkitektur mette dan-weibel.

project info:

name: copenhagen hospital north wing

designer: LINK arkitektur and 3XN, in collaboration with nickl & partner, sweco and kristine jensens tegnestue

location: copenhagen, denmark

size: 65,200 sqm (70,1806.9 sqft)

completed: 2020

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina petridou | designboom