A New Healthcare Center Marks the Entrance to Södra Ryd

Located on the northern outskirts of Skövde, Södra Ryd is characterized by long sight lines and 1960s and 1970s housing developments, primarily comprising low-rise apartment buildings with flat or low, sloping roofs. Following the natural topography in plateau-like formations, the development inclines from north to south. To the north and west the locality borders a recreational woodland area. Residential courtyards, plots, streets, and walkways are flanked by mature greenery and several avenues.

The site for the healthcare center is in the northern, highest part of the area. A natural landmark, the building is visible from many of the surrounding areas. The design proposal further distinguishes the individuality of the building by allowing it to break with the lines of the strict grid that otherwise dominate the area. In terms of design, it relates to St. Mattheus’ Church, a familiar silhouette for the residents, which also clearly differs from the relatively homogenous residential buildings. With a welcoming gesture the new healthcare center announces itself to the road, the walking path, and the main approach to Södra Ryd.

From the center of the area, the healthcare center is reached though Hälsans Park towards which the building’s public preschool faces. To create synergy between activities the childcare center is located next door. For visitors arriving by car or public transport there is an alternative entrance via the car park. The flow of people from both entrances converge in the waiting room, a large indoor square traversed by patients en route to the healthcare center or the dentist. Designed as a light and open space, the square boasts an atrium character in which the light streams down between the open solid-wood roof trusses. The air volume per visitor is high to minimize the spread of infection. On the upper floor, home to the administrative area, a generous staff roof terrace is conducive to making Hälsans Hus an attractive workplace. An unfurnished attic is designed to be easily converted into an additional workspace, providing the building with a built-in flexibility.

The proposal is to construct the building of solid wood. The façade material is simple and robust, rolled sheet metal on the roof, full length corrugated fiber cement on the façade whose green hue visually connects the building to the surrounding woodland and the many pine trees in the area.