DELTA PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL – POORTUGAAL, THE NETHERLANDS

For over thirty years Stijlgroep guides the consecutive cycles of transformation from secluded institution towards an innovative and open facility, in touch with their environment and society. The landscape is implemented as ha ealing and healthy environment, for both patients and staff.

This transformation of an immense complex in Poortugaal, with many different groups of patients, requires a sensitive and careful strategy. In the proces making sure, that the changes in use, experience, and occupation, effect the vulnerable patient groups in a positive way.

In the first two strategies, the landscape lay-out on the complex was altered to connect the area with the surrounded landscape of the river and the polders. The identity of the lanes and greens were redefined to create an open structure. This transformation fits the changed view on psychiatric care and offers a more friendly and free approach. Mental health care and society are integrated and are no longer separated.

In 2016 the third cycle of transformation started, where society is invited to return on the premises in a combination of small housing projects. These houses are situated in the areas that are no longer in use by the hospital. This transformation and long cooperation was honoured by a visit of the former Queen of the Netherlands.

In 2000 it was rewarded the Golden Pyramid Award for Excellence.

Location: Poortugaal, The Netherlands
Client: Delta / Antes
Date: 1996 - 2017
Category: Strategy, Urban Design, Landscape Architecture, Public Space, Architecture