Modern healthcare projects place an even greater focus on people and their well-being. And in doing so, they support recovery.
It is clear that architecture alone cannot heal. But a welcoming, bright and calming environment has a positive impact on recovery. Studies show that patients with a view of nature from their window require fewer painkillers. So, in addition to medical experts and state-of-the-art equipment, specialists are also needed for the design, planning, construction and operation of healthcare facilities. And our examples show what this can look like.
3. CRJDA Sainte-Thérèse Rehabilitation CentreCanada
The new Centre de réadaptation pour jeunes en difficulté d'adaptation (CRJDA) in Sainte-Thérèse, Canada, is a modern rehabilitation facility for young people. Creating an environment that fosters dignified care and recovery was a key priority in the design by ACDF Architecture, in collaboration with Stantec. In a press release, Joan Renaud, a partner at ACDF Architecture, said: “Architecture does not heal. But it can help to create the conditions for healing.” Flowing forms, warm materials and colours radiate calm and a sense of security. At the same time, the design – from the façade to the interior – meets strict safety standards. Covering a total area of around 12,000 m², the clinic comprises various learning spaces and classrooms, areas for healthcare staff and a detention room, as well as three residential wings for the young people. The rehabilitation centre opened in 2025. With a large terrace and views of the green surroundings through generous glazed areas, cosy nooks and spacious activity areas, the aim is for patients to find peace and tranquillity here. The green spaces and woodland on the site have been meticulously maintained, reforested and optimised. With this rehabilitation centre, a fine example of healing architecture has been created here.
2. St. Pölten University Hospital, Building DAustria
The extension to Building D at St. Pölten University Hospital has been completed since May 2024. The project was commissioned by VITALIS Grundstücksverwaltung GmbH and NÖ Landeskliniken-Holding. It was carried out by the St. Pölten University Hospital consortium, comprising VAMED Standortentwicklung und Engineering GmbH and PORR Bau GmbH. The scope of work included complete project management, the planning, construction and fitting-out of the building, including the supply and installation of medical technology, as well as relocation, training and commissioning. The new House D offers state-of-the-art hospital infrastructure across 11 floors with a gross floor area of around 61,400 m². It comprises 11 operating theatres, around 400 beds for various medical specialities, and a central outpatient clinic. This makes it the largest hospital construction project in Lower Austria. A flagship project that represents a key component for clinical care, teaching and research.
PORR Healthcare
PORR Healthcare sees itself as a full-service provider for the comprehensive development, planning, and implementation of healthcare infrastructure - from project definition through operational planning and biomedical engineering to building design, construction, and commissioning.
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1. Waldkliniken EisenbergGermany
Following four years of construction, the Waldkliniken Eisenberg opened in 2020. Since then, the district hospital has not only won an award in the Architecture category at the 2020/21 Thuringian State Prize for Building Culture, but has also received public awards and been praised by specialist magazines. According to the operator, the aim of the new building was to “combine cutting-edge medicine with the comfort of a five-star hotel for patients from all health insurance schemes”. The new building cost EUR 62.5 million. It was designed by Milan-based architect Matteo Thun in collaboration with the architectural firm HDR. The circular floor plan allows a view of the natural surroundings from every patient room. The façade is made of larch wood and reflects the connection to the region’s natural surroundings. By treating patients as guests, a modern concept of healing architecture has been developed, which appears to work exceptionally well in the new Waldkliniken Eisenberg building.
