C.F. Møller Architects and AIA Life Designers have unveiled plans for Campus Santé Franceline Ribard (formerly QHU), ‘a pioneering €274 million healthcare campus set to transform medical education and research on the historic Île de Nantes in France’.
The 44,400 m² development – comprising three interconnected buildings for Campus Life, Teaching, and Practical Training – will, they say – ‘establish a new paradigm for healthcare architecture, by seamlessly integrating educational, research, and clinical spaces adjacent to Nantes’ new university hospital’.
Architects, Mads Mandrup Hansen and Simon Tsouderos said: "Our vision unites cutting-edge medical facilities with climate-friendly design principles to create a campus that nurtures physical, mental, and social wellbeing under one roof. By blending AIA’s healthcare expertise with C.F. Møller's campus design experience, we've created a permeable environment that respects the island's industrial heritage while engaging with neighbouring architectural landmarks.”
Among the project’s distinctive features are a sophisticated ‘Flight Deck’ elevated walkway connecting the three hubs, tiered indoor and outdoor spaces for formal and informal learning, rehabilitated heritage elements, and an extensive green infrastructure promoting biodiversity and climate resilience.
Simon Tsouderos, Partner at AIA Life Designers, said: “The spaces seamlessly integrate clinical, research, and educational functions while prioritising flexibility for future healthcare innovations.”
Mads Mandrup Hansen, Partner at C.F. Møller Architects, added: “The Campus Santé Franceline Ribard embodies our philosophy that successful learning environments must foster community and connection. By creating open, informal spaces that interlink both internally and externally, we've designed a campus that will become a dynamic and vibrant place for generations of medical professionals.”
Climate-consciousness is reportedly’ embedded throughout the design’, aiming for environmental credentials, including E3C2 and Level 3 bio-sourced Labels. The façade strategy employs zinc, wood, and exposed concrete ‘to create a natural patina that will evolve gracefully over time’, while bioclimatic principles guide the design through tailored solar protection and hybrid ventilation strategies.
The development prioritises climate-friendly mobility, with an extensive bicycle facility housing 1,650 bikes, and dynamic ramp systems connecting different levels, encouraging physical activity and reducing carbon emissions.
Construction is scheduled to start in 2026, with completion expected in September 2030.
