Psychiatric care integrated into the city center of Kortrijk
De Korbeel & De Patio
At the transition between the city center of Kortrijk and the historic Groeningepark, Groep Zorg H. Familie has developed a new psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents. This project breaks the stigma surrounding mental healthcare by openly positioning itself in the urban landscape and strengthening the connection with the city and the park.
Facts about the project
- Groep Zorg H. Familie
- Client
- Kortrijk, Belgium
- Location
A connecting link in the city
The new campus forms a natural connection between the busy Langemeersstraat and the tranquility of Groeningepark. Through a thoughtful urban and architectural concept, the fragmented streetscape is restored with a contemporary interpretation of the terraced house typology. Three patio houses, connected by garden walls, create safe outdoor spaces that align with the age and needs of the living groups.
The site is semi-public: a new pedestrian and cyclist passage invites movement from the city to the park. The reception square, paved with pink bricks, serves as a symbolic ‘red carpet’ to the park.
Green and light as healing elements
The design allows the greenery of Groeningepark to penetrate deeply into the campus. Playfully placed windows provide views of gardens and park greenery, creating a sense of calm and connection. The outdoor spaces are designed as play and rest zones and are also used for therapy. In a later phase, additional sports infrastructure, including an agility course, will be added.
Flexibility in design
All functions are located on the ground floor, enhancing accessibility and quality of life. A central axis with supporting facilities forms the backbone, while the wings can be flexibly adapted to future needs. This allows the building to easily respond to changing group compositions without compromising privacy or comfort.
A child-friendly living environment
The hospital is designed as a temporary home for mentally vulnerable children. The materials are sober, expressive, and child-friendly, with green glazed bricks in the patio façades. The gardens extend the living spaces and are equipped with age-appropriate recreational features such as sandpits, swings, fitness equipment, hammocks, and quiet areas. Four artworks by Henk Delabie, which also serve as play objects, enhance social integration and add a playful accent along the route from the main entrance to the park.
Recognition
The project received an honorable mention in the Mental Health Design category at the European Healthcare Design Congress, in recognition of its innovative approach that combines a sense of security with urban interaction.
