Introduction
S+A came second place in the international competition launched for the hospital in Qinhuangdao, a city 280km from Beijing. Our proposal was based on the construction of a complex with simple but institutional language, of deep aesthetic and functional harmony. The two principles at the core of this project were related to the sustainability of materials (taking into consideration the need for cleaning and sterilisation which are essential conditions in hospital environments) and accessibility (indoor and outdoor). The low-density complex is formed of various interlinked buildings, situated within an artificial forest, intended to provide environmental comfort to users and to respond to future needs relating to the provision of long-term healthcare services. The open interior patios, fitted with green spaces, illuminate the interior space, providing additional general comfort to users.