Tampere Psychiatric Clinic,
designed by C.F. Møller Architects
In the Finnish city of Tampere, a state-of-the-art psychiatric clinic opened at the University Hospital in January 2024. The project, developed by the Danish office C.F. Møller Architects in cooperation with the Finnish ARCO Architecture Company, was built on the outskirts of the existing hospital complex, adjacent to green areas. This location is not accidental - proximity to pine forests and the ability to enjoy outdoor space play an important role in psychiatric care, supporting the treatment process of patients.
Psychiatric clinic in Tampere - visualization
© C.F. Møller Architects, ARCO Architecture
replacement for historic facility
The new facility has taken over the functions of the more than 120-year-old Pitkäniemi Psychiatric Hospital, which was previously owned by Nokia. The Tampere clinic offers 180 beds distributed in specialized units such as emergency, psychotic, crisis, somatopsychiatric, neuropsychiatric, mood disorders, neuromodulation, addiction treatment, forensic psychiatry and an outpatient clinic. Such diversity makes it possible to tailor care to individual patients' needs, taking into account both their medical condition and stage of treatment.
Psychiatric clinic in Tampere - the design uses mainly brick and wood
photo by Wellu Hamalainen © C.F. Møller Architects
A flexible structure to support treatment and work
The architecture of the clinic was designed with functionality and comfort for both patients and staff in mind. The building is distinguished by a flexible layout that allows for the creation of spaces of different nature: private, social and public. Internal and external areas respond to the needs of psychiatric patients, facilitating their gradual adaptation to daily life and reality outside the facility.
Tampere psychiatric clinic - a diagram of the interconnection of the various building blocks
© C.F. Møller Architects
The complex consists of three U-shaped buildings arranged in a ring around central courtyards. These enclosed spaces act as secure zones where activities, visits and integration activities take place. Each ward offers individual rooms with access to daylight and views of the surrounding nature - elements considered crucial to the recovery process.
Tampere psychiatric clinic - longitudinal cross section
© C.F. Møller Architects
efficiency and safety in daily use
The structure of the facility was designed to optimize the work of the staff. The wards are connected in pairs, sharing common technical and administrative facilities, which increases operational efficiency. The circular layout of the buildings and vertical transportation nodes shorten the distances between zones, facilitating quick movement and ensuring good visibility within the facility. This layout promotes patient and staff safety while keeping the space clear.
Tampere psychiatric clinic - floor plan
© C.F. Møller Architects
architecture rooted in the local context
The design draws inspiration from Tampere's industrial heritage, evident in the use of brick and wood as the main materials. These elements harmonize with the natural surroundings to create a cohesive aesthetic that blends tradition and modernity. The greenery around the clinic, including pine forests and garden-like courtyards, reinforces the therapeutic nature of the place. Balconies at each ward and secluded outdoor spaces provide patients with direct contact with nature, which is an integral part of the therapeutic concept.
Psychiatric clinic in Tampere
Photo by Wellu Hamalainen © C.F. Møller Architects
sustainable solutions and natural light
Great emphasis was placed on the use of natural lighting, which reduces the need for artificial light sources and improves the quality of the interior. The project also uses furniture from the previous hospital in Pitkäniemi, which not only introduces an element of cultural continuity, but also reduces the environmental impact of the development. This approach combines functionality with environmental responsibility.
Tampere psychiatric clinic - natural lighting improves interior quality
photo by Wellu Hamalainen © C.F. Møller Architects
landscape as part of therapy
A key design consideration is the integration of architecture with the landscape. The clinic's surroundings - pine forests and carefully designed outdoor spaces - support patients in the healing process, offering peace and opportunities for tranquility. Direct access to greenery, both from rooms and common courtyards, underscores the idea that nature is an integral support in psychiatric treatment.
Tampere psychiatric clinic - visualization
© C.F. Møller Architects, ARCO Architecture
summary: Space for people
The psychiatric clinic in Tampere is an example of architecture that combines the needs of patients, staff and the local context. The flexible structure, access to nature and sustainable solutions create an environment conducive to therapy and work. The project demonstrates how a well-planned space can support mental health while offering functionality and harmony with the environment.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of C.F. Møller Architects.
