Healthcare centre
design that promotes
wellness via biophilia
WORDS gina calder aRcHitect Buchan pHOtOgRapHy Michael gazzolaglobal architecture
firm Buchan recently
delivered a multi-
million dollar healthcare
facility with the design
based on principles of
wellness and biophilia.
Led by Harvey Male, principal at Buchan,
the Victorian Specialist Centre project in
Lower Templestowe was designed to meet
the client’s brief that sought to revolutionise
the customer’s experience with a healthcare
facility based on the principles of wellness
and biophilic design. The building combines
modern amenities with natural elements to
create a calming environment.
Observing that design can support mental
wellbeing, which in turn, has positive
implications for physiological health, Male says,
“Architects have the opportunity, through the
design of form, space and materiality, to provide
an improved sense of wellbeing.”
By focussing on nature, lighting, wayfinding
and privacy, the Victorian Specialist Centre’s
considered design aims to create the best
possible experience for the customer from
the moment they drive into the underground
parking and enter the spacious waiting areawhere a six-metre Ficus Hilii tree welcomes
them as they walk in the door. The tree is a
reflection of the health of the centre and was
selected for its suitability for the environment.
The stylish reception area features soaring
ceilings and contemporary furnishings to create
a naturally lit, relaxing space for patients.
To ensure human interaction, visitors are
greeted by a person and not a screen.
“Relationship and socialisation have positive
health benefits, so whilst incorporating cutting
edge technology throughout individual practices
was essential, it was also important to preserve
the opportunity for human interaction where
possible,” explains Male.
Underground parking is available for patients
and delivery personnel with internal access,
considerate of the need for both patient and
operational privacy. Patient discretion continues
into the waiting rooms with sectioned waiting
areas separated with chiffon curtaining.architecture & design /pROjectS/ jul-sep 201934ADQ3_034_037_VIC Centre_V4.indd 34 26/7/19 4:49 pm