Nobel 1: the new landmark of Ghent University Hospital

On the campus of Ghent University Hospital, Nobel 1 is rising, an important milestone in the development of a new science park. This architectural landmark is a harbinger of the innovative future envisioned by the master plan, Project U. Nobel 1 functions as a gateway building and symbolizes sustainability and progress.

The building embodies the renewal of the university campus. The design reflects the ambition to be a beacon of innovation and sustainability, similar to architect Henry van de Velde's historic book tower. With its triangular elements, modular design and fine façade structure, Nobel 1 creates a dynamic interaction between indoor and outdoor space.

Nobel 1's green crown, a rooftop garden environment, offers 360° views of Ghent. This green roof, planted with trees and plants, symbolizes the connection with nature while also serving as an event venue... high in the sky.

Nobel 1 is equipped with advanced sustainable technologies. For example, PV cells were integrated under the window openings. These elements provide both green electricity and passive solar control. Inside, through large glass areas, light takes center stage and various innovative initiatives are being tested. Nobel 1 serves as a research building in which technologies such as voice over IP telephony and IPTV over data cabling are being introduced. A new badge system with higher security is also being tested, enabling the transition to deskfire technology.

The internal structure focuses on fire safety with a central core throughout the building. This core houses elevators and air ducts and ensures that fire safety measures are consistent throughout. The air ducts are cleverly integrated between the windows, allowing the façade to maintain an even, clean appearance with no visible grilles. In addition, passive shading elements protruding above the windows contribute to the energy-
efficiency and aesthetics of the building.

UZ Gent aims to be CO2 neutral by 2050, and Nobel 1 plays a crucial role in that goal. The building has no gas connection and is heated with heat pumps that capture outside air to distribute inside. Electric heating and advanced sprinkler systems provide fire safety, without traditional evacuation routes. This innovative fire safety system, based on compartmentalization, especially complies with the American insurance standards that are gaining acceptance.

The building is also full of intelligent conventional technology. For example, because of legionella prevention, there are no hot water circulation systems. Instead, flow-through water heaters are used to heat water directly. Also important is that all heavy functions were provided under the technical rooms. Little distance between crucial areas creates fewer negative effects. The heavy demands placed on clean rooms are thus better managed. These are examples of how every process and detail is in function of patient health and safety.

Nobel 1 provides flexible space for various medical and research-related spin-offs, promoting synergies with the medical and pharmaceutical world. The building is designed with the future in mind. Think, for example, of renting a floor to a company active in pharmaceuticals or a related sector in which a lot of research is done. This flexibility allows UZ Gent to constantly evolve and anticipate the latest developments in medical science. The building is positioned next to Corneel Heymanslaan, named after the Nobel Prize winner.  

In a first phase, the focus is mainly on a hybrid interpretation. Concretely, this means that some departments of Ghent University Hospital will temporarily move in. Once their new environment is realized, they will leave again and Nobel 1 will evolve into a 100% research center. 

Another remarkable aspect is the speed and efficiency with which the project was realized. Department Head of Facility Management Geert De Waele clarifies, "In just one year, the shell construction was completed, thanks to a precisely coordinated planning program with strict timetables for all parties involved. This rapid progress was made possible by the efficient collaboration of the consortium MBG, LOW architects and Wiegerinck." The construction process itself was a logistical masterpiece, with a new floor being added every two weeks. This speed was possible thanks to tight coordination and planning, where each task and phase of the project was meticulously outlined. The use of unique post-it scheduling programs ensured that everyone knew exactly where and when each task was to be completed. This led to an extraordinarily streamlined construction process that took place near the catering building. The interest and wonder of lunching colleagues increased by the day.  

Nobel 1 symbolizes the new future of the UZ Gent campus with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation and user comfort. As a new landmark and research building, it contributes to the university's reputation as a center of progress and knowledge. By implementing advanced technologies and environmentally friendly solutions, Nobel 1 sets the tone for future developments within the medical and scientific community. The strategic and rapid realization of the building, along with innovative approaches to sustainability and safety, makes Nobel 1 an example of modern hospital design and a beacon of hope and progress in healthcare.