In real estate, you hear “location, location, location” as the ultimate guide to value, and healthcare shares this fundamental principle in many ways. A healthcare facility’s location affects everything—from patients’ ease of access to clinicians’ commute and attendance. But there’s another layer: the design decisions behind healthcare buildings, be they Greenfield or Brownfield, have an immense impact on patient experience, facility functionality, and long-term success.
Over my 15 years working on healthcare projects, I’ve seen the distinct advantages of retrofitting existing structures—what we call “Brownfield” projects—versus starting from scratch, or “Greenfield” projects. Reflecting on these experiences at HCG, I find that some of our most successful centers are Brownfield, where existing spaces have been transformed into modern healthcare hubs that speak to our commitment and vision.
Brownfield A viable option: Lessons from Around the World
Choosing a brownfield project is not unique to HCG; it’s a common phenomenon across the world. A few years ago, while visiting Venice with my family, we came across an ancient, grand building that was actually a fully functioning hospital. Despite being centuries old, the building was adapted to house modern medical facilities. It struck me how historical architecture can blend with state-of-the-art healthcare, serving as a reminder of the continuity and endurance of our purpose to heal. The superb location added further value, making the hospital accessible while preserving a piece of history.
This theme plays out in many other cities, too. Take our own HCG center on KR Road in Bengaluru, for example. Located in the city’s center, it began as a single tower and has since expanded to seven, driven by the need to provide accessible, high-quality care. Despite challenges like traffic congestion and limited parking, the location remains a hub for doctors, nurses, and patients. It’s a reflection of the trust and demand that has grown with us over the years.
Accessibility and Expertise: A Common Global Trend
Cities like Chicago, Boston, and Amsterdam show a similar trend. The Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, nestled in the heart of the city, has grown extensively despite the challenges of an urban location. This centrality allows patients to access the best doctors, fellows, and specialists, a factor that suburban satellite clinics can rarely replicate. Similarly, hospitals in cities like Boston and Amsterdam manage the challenges of their locations, yet their presence in the heart of the city brings unparalleled expertise and specialized care close to those who need it most.
Building for Connection and Care: A New Design Ethic
When it comes to building healthcare spaces, there’s still a prevailing fascination with creating new, high-tech hospitals from the ground up. While Greenfield projects offer their own benefits—like the flexibility to integrate advanced technology seamlessly into the infrastructure—many decision-makers often overlook the impact of design on patient experience.
Healthcare design today isn’t just about walls, rooms, and equipment; it’s about creating an environment that communicates the care and hope we want our patients to feel. As a customer, it’s essential to approach healthcare facility design with a clear understanding of your brand and mission. Spending the time to articulate your vision and priorities is invaluable. This clarity will guide architects and designers to create spaces that not only meet functional needs but also resonate with the essence of your brand. For instance, in oncology, using natural materials and creating an organic atmosphere can be immensely comforting for patients and their families. A thoughtfully designed space connects with patients on a personal level—it tells them that we understand the importance of nature in healing and are committed to an approach that values their holistic well-being.
Design with a Purpose: Educating and Empowering Patients
Our mission extends beyond treating illness; it’s also about empowering our patients with the knowledge that their choices matter. There’s ample evidence that what we put into our bodies—such as organic food and clean water—impacts our health. By incorporating natural, organic design elements in healthcare facilities, we reinforce this message in subtle yet powerful ways. Patients and their families begin to feel that they’re in a place that acknowledges the connections between lifestyle, environment, and health.
The Bigger Picture: Aligning Design with Vision
The end goal in healthcare is clear: to alleviate suffering and, ultimately, prevent disease. This mission drives healthcare founders, leaders, and practitioners, even while balancing business objectives. It’s a calling that we carry in every design choice, in every facility built or retrofitted. Each space we create is a reminder that healthcare is about people, compassion, and community. The world of healthcare is evolving, and so must our approach to its spaces. The modern healthcare design is one that not only provides accessibility but also embodies the values of care, connection, and purpose. It’s a full-circle journey that connects patients, families, and healthcare providers through spaces that are meaningful, functional, and healing.
