Site restrictions included a 50 and 100-year
flood line from Brandwacht River on the northern
boundary, which necessitated re-enforced retaining
walls and restricted openings on the basement’s
perimeter walls on the northern façade. Right of
way for the Brandwacht Residential Estate on the
Eastern boundary restricted the expansion of the
wards onto the boundary.
Simonsberg, the two defining mountain ranges
surrounding Stellenbosch. The main entrance
double volume light fitting is one of its kind, unique
to Mediclinic. A palette of natural colours creates a
relaxed environment inside the hospital.
The wall murals and acoustic wall panels in
passages and waiting areas throughout the hospital,
tell stories of local Stellenbosch landscapes.
Design Response
Although the building has a contemporary look, it
respects the beauty of its surroundings by drawing
in the natural aspects of the site such as natural
backdrop of trees and mountains. The overall
design strategy was to draw natural elements,
textures and features from the surrounding
area into the building. The aim was to create an
atmosphere beyond expectation that would allow
patients to feel at home and in turn encourage the
healing process.
The buildings main aesthetic is derived from
the majestic row of Stone Pines, situated on the
northern boundary of the site, and is maintained
throughout - externally forming a silhouette
outline on the south western façade screen and
re-enforced internally with timber panels at the
main entrance foyer, reception, pharmacy and
main staircase.
The entrance foyer was designed to be
attractive and inviting. The overhead acoustic
timber panels set the outline of Jonkershoek and
Mediclinic
71