Meilahti Hospital Area

The Meilahti hospital area is about to grow into one huge machine independent of the surrounding city. We propose a new strategy based on building land-formation-resembling, green roofed (un-)buildings that make maximum use of space while letting the existing landmarks remain in a dominant role.

These new buildings are systematic and have large structural depths. The required depths are reached by cutting light wells into the structures. “Hot” hospital functions requiring larger depths are located on or near ground level. Those functions benefiting from daylight are further up, away from the lobby. Buildings narrowing towards the sky and lowering towards the street-front work well with this kind of a division, appearing smaller than their actual size.

The new master plan will create integrity in the area. In order to emphasize the urban feel, the most important pedestrian routes will become inviting and straightforward. The border between nature and the manmade environment will become more visible. The preserved landmark buildings will receive yard areas on a par with them.