Design International designs the external envelope for Pavilion Zero

Design International was appointed by CMB to design the external facade for Istituto Giannina Gaslini, one of Europe’s premier children’s hospitals

This highly technical project provides new facilities for the hospital. It is visible from the surrounding hills and the sea and is an integral part of Genoa’s rich urban landscape. The hospital extends over several hectares of land, in a series of over 20 connected pavilions. This is typical of Genoa’s urban landscape. Pavilion Zero will centralise all emergency functions, with high care and surgical intensity for children, future mothers and families, guaranteeing maximum operational efficiency and excellent quality of care.

Eduardo Vazquez, Lead Architect and Office Director of Design International’s Milan office, explains the challenges:

“The layout of the hospital was already set. Our role is to make sure it presents itself to patients, parents, visitors and passers-by as a friendly and inviting place. It is also a prominent feature on the urban landscape of Genoa, so it must respect its historical context. The internal layout includes many cellular spaces and on top there is a helipad, which adds interest and vitality to the external design.”

We studied sun paths for solar gain control and an analysed the surrounding area to determine which neighbours will see the building when complete. Close up, few neighbours will see it, because of the tightly packed urban environment. But from farther away it will be visible, and a new feature in Genoa’s historic skyline.

Francesco di Niccolo, Design International’s Head of Innovation, adds:

“We carefully analysed the project’s environmental and visual impact throughout the design process. We were surprised to see how few people would be able to see Pavilion Zero from their windows. We always design to context, aware of sensitivities wherever they may arise. No more so than in Genova’s historic centre.”