The light as guideline. Cózar clinic by Lecoc Arquitectura and Andrés J. Cózar Lizandra

Description of project by Lecoc Arquitectura and Andrés J. Cózar Lizandra

The first time we visited the premises that were to become The Cózar Clinic, we found ourselves facing a dark, shattered space, one with no definite form or function, an abandoned area, victim of neglect.

The relentless passage of time could be felt and seen in every corner. The place had just two small openings of natural light, one located in the very narrow façade, the second one in the interior courtyard.

We wanted to furnish life anew to that place throughout the judicious use of the light. The transformative power of architecture would be the means to bring it to distinct use, defined by renewed values.

From that moment, an overflowing exterior access space was projected on the façade to intensify the interior-exterior relationship with the pedestrian plaza that gives access to the Clinic. We designed a semi-public space that allows for a meditative mood prior to entering the Clinic. We wanted it to promote social exchange, favour approachability and magnify how natural light got inwards.

The quest for light becomes the guiding string of the project, connecting all physical, functional, spatial and sensory aspects of it. From the patio, there are three levels of lighting: the first level is appended to the courtyard and contains the pieces of the program where the natural lighting is direct. The next level is the main corridor that articulates the entire space and divides it into two programmatic and functional parts. The third level houses a space used for preparation and peace and thus needs less light.

To obtain a relaxing atmosphere, the attention to the design of both separating elements between lighting levels and space articulators is paramount. We have taken extreme care of the Clinic's material and functional aspects, as well as in the materials and sensorial elements. We have looked to create a nearly monastic environment in which light seems to bring health and well-being to the users of the space.

On one side of the corridor space, the translucent glass allows natural light to pass through in a sifted and controlled manner, creating an exciting game of light and shadows. On the other side, lacquered wood panels that give access, through flush doors, to the most restricted areas, bring warmth and texture to the location.

The care for details rich in texture and the way of using the different elements is a discernible element of the project. Noble materials such as wood, glass and ceramics are delicately worked to achieve the calm, neat and clean atmosphere that the space transmits.

Inspired by the aesthetics of meditation spaces, the project responds to the necessary technical requirements to carry out the medical activity, with a clinical program of outpatient complexity.

The project takes care of detail with rigour, using the textures of materials, and outlining the light as the main element through which peace is brought, and healthcare happens.