Henning Larsen Architects' proposal for the Odense University Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences in Odense, Denmark, has received the WAN Healthcare Award in the category for Unbuilt Projects.

Among the jury’s comments, WAN has reported that: "The huge scale healthcare and research facility impressed the panel as somewhere they would really like to visit. The circular design embedded into the Danish countryside inspired our panellist Monaghan to comment that 'I have not seen anything like this, it’s a pretty grand vision for a hospital'. Lee was quick to back him up in saying: ‘It’s a cultural thing; they are much more community and lifestyle focused in the design.’ The scheme is orientated around a huge central green space, taking into consideration the local resources and focusing on recreational opportunities for users as well as neighbours. A fantastic vision of what a healthcare facility could be. Lee finished off the evaluation by stating that: ‘It’s welcoming and holistic in its approach. It’s encouraging too, as a hospital should be more than just a clinical space.’”

The project is built around a circular complex, inviting the day-to-day users into an impeccable universe. The human scale supports the conception of the hospital as ‘the good host’ – a place where patients and visitors can easily find their way and feel at home. When approaching, one is met by an inviting and recognisable urban scale, where the complex is divided into varied units, each with its own clear entrance and reception area.

The overall plan meets demanding requirements for a highly efficient, flexible and future-proof hospital, yet is designed around the individual. The eye-level approach to design considers employees, patients and other users and accommodates them with a high degree of respect and consideration.

An international jury selected the winners of the WAN Healthcare Award from among 34 entries. The award is presented by World Architecture News, one of the world's most visited websites with news from the architecture and construction sectors.

The proposal was developed by a consortium comprised of Henning Larsen Architects, Friis & Moltke, TKT, Cowi and Rambøll Denmark. Subconsultants were Landscape Architects SLA and NNE Pharmaplan. As a finalist in the 2011 international competition, the project will not be constructed.

All Images © Henning Larsen Architects

> via Henning Larsen Architects