hospitals

San Raffaele Hospital, Surgical and Emergency Center

Iceberg: where care meets design

Year

2021

Designers

Mario Cucinella

Studio

Mario Cucinella Architects

Location

Milano, Italy

The new Surgical and Emergency Center of the IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, nicknamed “Iceberg” for its distinctive shape, is an iconic project by the renowned studio Mario Cucinella Architects. The building combines a recognizable architectural design with the highest attention to hygiene and safety.
Covering an area of over 37,000 m², the structure consists of two complementary elements: the technical platform, which houses the hospital’s main functions, including the new emergency department – one of the largest in Lombardy, with 4,330 m² – and the upper section, an eight-story tower accommodating inpatient wards, medical offices, and outpatient clinics.
The project aims for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification thanks to its focus on sustainable materials and energy efficiency. A key contribution comes from Active Surfaces® by Iris Ceramica Group, eco-active surfaces used in the most sensitive areas: common floors, elevator landings, restrooms, and 172 rooms with integrated bathrooms. These innovative materials help maintain healthy environments, purify the air, and reduce risks, ensuring safety for staff and patients.
Once again, Mario Cucinella Architects demonstrates the ability to combine architectural quality, functionality, and efficiency in a project that places people’s well-being at its core.