The second wing of St. Sofia General Hospital for Active Treatment is an expansion of the existing hospital, designed to support a new generation of medical care and high professional standards. Developed by IPA - Architecture and more, the project is one of the studio's major projects in healthcare buildings in Bulgaria.
The new hospital wing consists of two buildings positioned in close proximity. It forms a natural extension of the existing medical complex while expanding the range of healthcare services and increasing patient capacity.
The building includes eight floors and two underground levels, connected through a central circulation core. More than 20 departments, 12 operating rooms, four laboratories, over 40 consulting rooms, a hemodialysis center, intensive care facilities, service and technical rooms, and staff areas are incorporated into the program.
A primary objective was to create a more comfortable and welcoming environment for patients and their families. The architectural design of the main lobby provides a generous space incorporating main and secondary reception areas, seating and waiting zones, a cafe, a medical-supply store, a pharmacy, and a bookstore. Reception areas within the departments maintain a direct connection between medical staff, patients, and visitors while helping soften the traditionally institutional character of a hospital environment. Seating areas on each floor provide spaces where patients can spend time privately or interact with others in a more comfortable setting.
The new facility also includes a sports and rehabilitation area with a swimming pool, fitness center, jacuzzi, sauna, solarium, and steam room. A restaurant with a panoramic terrace occupies the top floor, providing views toward Vitosha Mountain and Sofia.
Outdoor and underground parking is provided, together with a car wash.
The architectural expression responds to both the proximity of Vitosha Mountain and the contemporary urban character of the surrounding neighborhood. White is the dominant facade color, while darker tones in the window frames and glazing of the first two levels create contrast and reinforce the building's identity.
The architecture is intended to support both medical staff and patients by providing efficient working conditions together with a calmer healthcare environment. The project seeks to reduce the institutional character often associated with hospital spaces and create conditions that better support patient recovery.
The project received First Prize in the Healthcare Buildings category at the 2018 Building of the Year Awards.
