Challenges and Opportunities in Design of Highrise Healthcare Buildings in Saudi Arabia: An Overview

Abstract

The high-rise healthcare design has a particular set of benefits. This paper aims to illustrate the design consideration of facilities in urban areas because of their increasing land values at the same time healthcare demand not only a prospect for better planning flexibility, safety, and security but also an opportunity to achieve improved air quality, efficiency, reduced noise as well as a better healing environment. However, the main challenging aspects of high-rise healthcare design are vertical transportation, planning, life safety, noise and vibration, temperature, and airflow. To ensure the success of a vertical project, innovative approaches are essential in vertical design. This encompasses inventive facade design, standard frame construction techniques, and the effective operation of Facility Management Systems. Achieving this success demands infrastructure expertise, creative solutions for vertical transportation, and robust structural engineering capable of supporting heavy loads, including HVAC, electrical, low-current IT, and medical equipment that may weigh several tons. Also, Segregation of circulation, well-defined access, wayfinding, and the flow of services must be considered for patient/staff workflow. This paper employs a qualitative research methodology, utilizing a case study approach and physical observations to gather qualitative data. The analysis is conducted with the aim of identifying and addressing factors that influence design challenges in high-rise healthcare facilities. The ultimate goal is to propose a roadmap for mitigating space constraints, optimizing efficiency, and enhancing patient care within healthcare facilities.