A Modern Beacon of Care: StudioCAN’s Moreira de Cónegos Health Center in Guimarães

StudioCAN’s recent architectural project, the Moreira de Cónegos Health Center in Guimarães, Portugal, redefines public healthcare architecture with its striking design and meticulous functionality. Photographed by Ivo Tavares Studio, the project showcases an innovative approach that merges form, function, and community engagement.

Symbolic Volumetric Design

The health center’s design takes inspiration from the “star of life,” an internationally recognized symbol for medical services. This powerful emblem forms the foundation of the building’s volumetric layout, ensuring instant recognition of its public health purpose. The design’s star shape not only enhances visibility at ground level but also creates an iconic silhouette from aerial perspectives.

Single-Floor Program and Accessibility

Functionality and accessibility are at the forefront of this project. StudioCAN developed the health center on a single floor to facilitate easy navigation and improve access for all users. The center offers direct access to parking and service areas, streamlining patient and staff movement. This thoughtful approach reduces the complexities often associated with multi-level medical facilities.

Integration with Public Space

Surrounding the health center is a public park that enriches the community’s experience. The landscape includes tree and shrub vegetation, dry meadows, and well-planned pedestrian pathways. These paths connect both internally and externally, fostering a seamless interaction between the health center and its environment. This integration not only beautifies the area but also offers a serene space for residents and visitors.

Entrances and Functional Layout

StudioCAN’s approach ensures efficient spatial organization. The health center features three main entrances:

• North Entrance: The primary user entrance provides straightforward access for patients.
• East Entrance: Dual-purpose access supports service and waste management, alongside entry for medical staff and stretcher transportation when needed.

The building’s radial organization centers around an arrival nucleus that leads to the reception area. From here, visitors are directed to various waiting rooms, minimizing confusion and promoting an intuitive flow. Each wing branches out from the center, adhering to the “star” layout. This structure not only optimizes space usage but also delineates medical and administrative functions.

Distinctive Exterior Finishes

The choice of materials and colors amplifies the building’s visual impact. The walls are clad in blue-colored reinforced concrete, treated with a deactivated and bush-hammered finish that adds texture and durability. The facade openings are defined by black anodized aluminum, offering a sleek contrast to the blue walls. The inverted roof, composed of colored draining concrete, complements the building’s cohesive aesthetic.

This palette of blue and black is not only visually striking but also symbolic. Blue, often associated with tranquility and trust, underscores the center’s role as a space of healing and care.

A Community-Centric Approach

The Moreira de Cónegos Health Center goes beyond its primary function as a medical facility. It serves as a focal point for community interaction. The adjoining public park encourages outdoor activities, promoting wellness in a broader sense. By incorporating greenery and creating pedestrian-friendly pathways, StudioCAN has enhanced the urban fabric of Guimarães, making the health center an integral part of daily life.

Functional Zoning and Workflow Efficiency

Internally, the radial layout enhances operational efficiency. The central reception acts as a hub, directing patients seamlessly to various departments. Each wing houses specialized spaces that cater to different medical functions, ensuring a clear division of areas without compromising connectivity. This organization supports a smooth workflow for healthcare providers and minimizes patient wait times.

Innovative and Sustainable Choices

The choice of materials reflects StudioCAN’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The use of colored reinforced concrete not only adds to the building’s robustness but also reduces the need for additional decorative elements, contributing to environmental and economic sustainability. The drainage capabilities of the roof system further indicate a forward-thinking approach, effectively managing rainfall and minimizing environmental impact.

The Moreira de Cónegos Health Center is a testament to the evolving landscape of public health architecture. It seamlessly blends symbolic design, functionality, and community integration, creating a modern space that embodies care and efficiency. With its innovative layout, sustainable materials, and strategic location, this health center sets a benchmark for future healthcare projects, resonating with both architectural enthusiasts and the local community alike.

All images © by Ivo Tavares Studio. Feel free to find other inspiring architecture projects on WE AND THE COLOR.