University Dental Clinic, in Manresa
The Clínica Odontològica Universitària COU is located in an existing volume inside an urban block, with a single façade and skylights on the roof as the main source of natural light.
The intervention is based on this condition to structure both the layout and the atmosphere of the project. The routes, waiting areas and clinical spaces are organised around the existing light courtyards, which act as spatial nuclei and environmental regulators.
The treatment of light has been the guiding principle of the design: priority is given to its entry and diffusion through light materials, continuous surfaces and open ceilings that favour spatial reading.
The programmatic layout responds to the rhythm imposed by the structure and the zenithal lighting, giving rise to a balanced and functional sequence of spaces. The result is a technical and efficient environment, where architecture transforms limitations into design opportunities.
Promoter:Fundació Universitària del Bages
Surface:
Budget MEB:
Ended:
Constructor:Constructora d'Aro
Prefabs:
Installations:Larix Enginyeria
Structures:
DEO:Néstor Tatché
Lean management:
Contest:
Colaborators:
Categories:
Refurbishing from the pre-existing condition
This refurbishment project transforms an interior block space, originally without a defined use, into a university dentistry clinic. The volume had a single street façade and several skylights in the roof slab, which conditioned both the entry of natural light and the possible interior organisation. Far from considering this condition as a limitation, the project takes it as a structural and spatial starting point.
Light as organising axis
The skylights define the general distribution scheme. The main circulations, accesses to offices and waiting areas are organised according to their location, so that each key space is linked to a source of natural light. This strategy avoids blind corridors and favours spatial orientation without the need for additional elements. Overhead light thus becomes the main compositional resource, generating serene and homogeneous atmospheres in an environment of intensive use.
Materials at service of light
The choice of materials responds to the desire to amplify the available light: continuous light flooring, white partitions and perforated metal ceilings that allow artificial lighting to pass through and conceal the installations without fragmenting the space. The clinical furniture, with simple lines and white or neutral finishes, is discreetly integrated into the ensemble without competing with the spatiality sought.
Spatial and technical coherence
The intervention does not impose itself on the original space, but works on the basis of it, establishing a clear dialogue between structure, light and function. The result is a restrained architecture, where technical rigour and spatial sensitivity make it possible to convert a hard, closed volume into a contemporary, luminous and functional health and teaching facility.