Jury's verdict
The outdoor spaces stand alongside the building complexes. The blue-green surroundings stimulate physical and mental health, which is particularly important in a hospital environment. With an interesting and remarkable design approach that involved different users, quality prevails at all levels.
The universally designed solutions are incorporated as an integral part of the process rather than as an add-on. Moving around outside is easy due to connected pathways and good lighting. The emergency pathway lighting has a natural feel, is logical and is robust. The furnished areas are tidy and user-friendly with varied and ample seating, adapted pathways and inclines, and heated street lamps on the main pavement within the specific area. Plants have been selected with special consideration of those with allergies, and are approved by the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association. Exercise is possible within a number of safe frameworks that create well-being and incorporate many sensory surprises such as artwork.
The jury commends the innovative use of including universal design as an integral part of the plan from the overarching goals right down to the design details. On the whole, the landscape architecture is full of diversity in terms of space, experiences and mood. It aims to create well-being, is calming and health-promoting, and it contributes to a particularly inclusive and appealing hospital environment that gives added value to all: patients, employees, relatives, visitors, students and neighbours alike.
