Future Hospitals: What Will They Look Like?

Coronavirus has exposed issues with current healthcare provision and architecture

By Dan Hounsell


Few facilities have come under more scrutiny in the last year than those in healthcare. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic can be seen in updated thinking on issues as diverse as the role of signage and interior design on patient isolation and the need for improved HVAC system operation to prevent the spread of disease. What do these and related developments mean for the overall design of future hospitals?

Reinier de Graaf of Dutch architecture studio OMA envisions the hospital of the future, according to Dezeen. OMA has been commissioned to build hospitals in France and Qatar, despite having no experience in designing medical buildings. This demonstrates that hospital design needs to be rethought, De Graaf said. As part of its design process for the hospital projects, OMA outlined its thinking on hospital design.

De Graaf believes the coronavirus has exposed issues with current healthcare provision and architecture. One of the main findings from the studio's research into health facilities is that hospital buildings are lasting less time before they become obsolete, and this means hospitals must be designed to be constantly evolving. De Graaf also points to 3D printing and mass robotisation as two areas that the studio is looking to incorporate into its hospital designs.



December 30, 2021


Topic Area: Architecture


Recent Posts

On the Lookout: The Software Supply Chain as a Healthcare Cyberattack Vector

Staying watchful of third-party software vendors and their activities is critical for healthcare cybersecurity.


Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center at Clifton Opens

The Clifton center expands health care access in Passaic County by reducing barriers such as travel and wait times.


Suffolk Breaks Ground on Expansion of White Plains Hospital

The 10-story, approximately 500,000-square-foot expansion is slated to open in 2028.


EVS Leadership Culture Critical in Preventing Hospital-Acquired Sepsis

Cleaning is an essential yet complex component for the prevention of HAI-induced sepsis.


Man Dies by Suicide in Emergency Department Waiting Room at Kansas Hospital

No staff or patients were harmed, and the man was alone in the waiting area when he shot himself.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.