The distinctive design for Clinica Delgado draws inspiration from the massive rock outcroppings flanking the 15th century Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. We translated these primal forms into a dynamically faceted glass skin that serves as a metaphor for contemporary healthcare. Vegetated roof gardens and living walls echo techniques used by pre-Columbian builders while evoking the ruins’ plant-covered stone formations.
Although site constraints proved a significant challenge they ultimately spurred creative solutions. To fit the hospital’s various functions within the 2-acre site, we started by designing five levels below grade. These levels comprise back-of-house services including storage, a staff cafeteria and labs, as well as a cancer treatment center and parking for 900 cars. A taller hospital tower consisting of 144 beds for inpatient functions was situated 10 stories above grade. The hospital’s lower structure houses Clinica Delgado’s outpatient component, providing medical offices to support 200 doctors.
Situated between the taller hospital tower and the medical office building is the entrance to the main lobby/reception, which is connected by a central four-story atrium designed to reflect a large, fractured opening lined in stone. This feature introduces an abundance of natural light to the space while serving as a unique organizing feature between inpatient and outpatient services. Natural stone and native woods define the interior’s lobbies and corridors. Along with a delicate waterfall element, the atrium features a suspended stairway that enables circulation and connectivity to all public areas of the building.