MEDIKAYL
public land, private investment
In close collaboration with the municipal services, a feasibility study was developed to change the general development plan (from a low-density housing area to a mixed urban area) and thus make an important semi-public equipment possible.
architecture and constructive economy
The project stands out by its regular facade in exposed concrete, a logical consequence of the analysis of uses, functions and ergonomics. The resultant rational grid allows for interior layout flexibility and considerable space savings, since the facade is the main structural element. This regularity allowed the prefabrication of the concrete formwork and the serial installation of aluminum frames with quadruple glazing and integrated blinds, all by saving time and money, yet without reducing the quality of the building.
urban details, constructive details, durability (s)
On the ground floor, the volume is set back from the façade and thus defines a covered walkway. Like arcades in European cities, this passage extends the public space and creates additional comfort for patients, clients and professionals. The architecture is rational, logical, true and thus "beautiful". The architectural expression is reduced to a minimum, to leave nothing but a well-paced
structural framework reassure visitors and users.
An ambition governs the project and becomes the dominant mantra: do as little as possible but the best possible. Thus, the façade, structural and the expression of the building, pin the slabs of the 4 levels by special rebars with thermal breakers. The thermal envelope consisting of glazed elements that are mechanically fixed is in turn exchangeable, as well as the technical floors and ceilings that compose the few finishings. The building will thus be able to age at different pace and can be gradually updated.
Images by Maxime Delvaux et Ludmilla Cerveny
