New construction of Operating Center at University Hospital, Erlangen

In terms of height and size, the Operating Center (OPZ) is aligned with the existing buildings on the hospital site. Including a recessed floor at the top and the helicopter landing pad, it has five storeys.
In the choice of materials and façade design, the OPZ relates to the adjacent ward building and is linked with the surgical ward to form an architectural ensemble: the façades feature a rendered finish and the windows, with their predominantly vertical elements, are arranged in an even rhythmic pattern. The aluminium finish and louvre structures of the new ward building are also adopted in the OPZ. In combination, this creates an inviting situation for the main University Hospital entrance.

The entrance itself features an open two-storey colonnade, which is also reflected in the outside façade facing Maximiliansplatz just outside the hospital. The OPZ and the new ward building are connected by a glazed central concourse, in some parts in the form of bridges. The levels are connected via staircases, lifts and galleries. All the functional areas of the surgical ward can be reached directly from the central concourse. The glazed roof admits daylight which is reflected by metal and glass surfaces meaning that patients, guests and hospital staff are able to experience the times of day, and the seasons, from the central concourse.