Kinderzentrum Kepler Klinikum Linz

Nothing is more traumatic for a parent than bringing their child to A&E or having them hospitalized.  In Linz, a new premise that brings together a variety of specialist care for children and youth is being built at the Kepler University Hospital. A&E, various outpatient departments, a surgical center and six wards including intensive care, oncology and palliative care will all be on offer in one location – something only rarely seen in German-speaking countries.

Urban densification with a visually and logistically unified motif
The new edifice comprises patient rooms and the above-mentioned care facilities. It is in the form of a large rectilinear body set amongst a densely built-up site. Consistently short distances and exemplary logistics between the new and existing buildings promote sustainable spatial synergies between the spheres of clinical, nursing and material management. On the ground floor, the new building connects with the adjacent main building, forming a single visual element.  The first floor serves a distribution level. The direct connection between the neonatology and the surgical center of the new paediatrics ward will help save lives.

Increased well-being through daylight and green space
It is always challenging to provide sufficient daylight and green spaces in dense urban settings. The design meets this challenge head-on and provides plentiful access to the exterior on every floor. Two inner courtyards extend from the top floor to the basement and allow plenty of light into the rooms and corridors.

The facade creates a playful but coherent appearance with numerous, partially planted projections and recesses. These spacious terraces and loggias offer patients, relatives and employees recreation opportunities and a connection to nature on every level.
Child-friendly patient rooms offer maximum flexibility: sofas can be used as comfortable seating or additional beds. A window alcove provides seating and a view to the outside. Floor-to-ceiling windows let plenty of light into the room and create a pleasant  atmosphere for children, parents, relatives and staff.