University Heart Center Hamburg

The Universitäres Herzzentrum Hamburg (UHZ) is designed as a new generation of academic hospitals. It integrates clinical care, research, education, and innovation within a healthy and comfortable environment that supports recovery and collaboration. EGM, in collaboration with GMP Architekten, developed a future-oriented hospital focused on organisational clarity, quality of care, and a strong spatial experience for both patients and staff.

Clear organisation and human scale

An academic hospital is one of the most complex building typologies. The organisation of care processes is as critical as safety, comfort, communication, and privacy. Orientation and human scale are equally essential. The design is structured around a central axis that clearly organises the hospital. Open spaces, generous staircases, and carefully composed sightlines create clarity and legibility across all levels. Four internal courtyards and two rooftop gardens on the third floor introduce daylight and greenery into the heart of the building, while also offering spaces for retreat from the intensity of the hospital environment.

Façade between context and function

The building’s massing and façade respond to the urban context of Hamburg. The surrounding brick architecture is reinterpreted into a contemporary façade composed of vertical brick elements and horizontal precast concrete bands. On the lower floors, which accommodate operating theatres, intensive care, and cardiac catheterisation units, the façade is partially closed and partially open. This creates a balance between privacy, daylight, and outward views. On the inpatient wards, generous façade openings ensure maximum connection with the green surroundings and the wider campus.

Sustainability and flexibility as a foundation

The design prioritises sustainability, energy performance, and long-term adaptability. The compact layout and open structure optimise daylight penetration and reduce energy demand. The structural grid allows for future modifications and functional adjustments. In addition, the building can be extended towards the east through the continuation of the central axis.

Energy and comfort driven design

Energy demand is minimised through a controlled indoor climate strategy. Patient rooms are equipped with individually adjustable ventilation and sensor-controlled operable windows, enabling controlled night-time cooling. Shading and internal blinds prevent overheating while maintaining comfort and access to daylight. This allows patients to retain control over their immediate environment.