The Institut de cancérologie et d’imagerie (ICI)
The Institut de cancérologie et d’imagerie (ICI)
CHRU Brest, France
About the Project
The Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire (CHRU) in Brest, France, has recently undergone a significant expansion, adding a new oncology building – the Institut de cancérologie et d’imagerie (ICI) – spanning 21,800m².
Designed by the architectural firms Groupe 6 and Atelier Espinosa, the new facility integrates various specialised medical services including radiotherapy, oncology, haematology, imaging, and nuclear medicine. This construction is part of the broader initiative to establish CHRU Brest as a leading healthcare institution in the region.
Design Goals
At the heart of the ICI’s architectural vision was a commitment to creating a facility that embodied durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal. The project faced the dual challenge of constructing spaces robust enough to endure the daily passage of wheelchairs and heavy medical equipment, while also ensuring these spaces met the stringent hygiene standards vital in a cutting-edge oncology centre. Furthermore, the design aimed to cultivate an environment that supported the well-being and comfort of patients, facilitating ease of movement and a sense of calm during stressful treatments.
Solution
To meet these complex requirements, Construction Specialties (CS) delivered an optimum protection package.
CS’ Acrovyn Wall Protection Sheets were applied across more than 5,000m² of the facility’s corridors, complemented by corner and door protectors. These products not only protect walls, doors and corners from wear and tear but also brighten spaces with a palette ranging from soothing neutrals to vibrant tones. Decorative finishes like Golden Oak added a warm, welcoming touch to areas frequented by patients and their families, thereby enhancing the aesthetic value and comfort of the environment.
CS’ HREB-6 handrails were specifically chosen for their bactericidal properties, which remain effective over the course of the handrail’s life cycle – an ideal complement to the hospital’s rigorous sanitation protocols. The unique bactericidal additives in the handrail kill bacteria, unlike bacteriostatic materials which simply inhibit their growth. HREB-6 handrails are potentially the only bactericidal handrail currently available. To meet accessibility standards, these handrails not only provide physical support for pedestrians, but also blend harmoniously with the modern architecture of the new building, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patients.
At various entrances, including the radiotherapy and imaging departments, CS’s Pediluxe Ultra matting systems set the standard for cleanliness and safety. These mats efficiently trap dirt and moisture from incoming foot traffic, reducing maintenance burdens and preserving interior hygiene – an essential feature for the healthcare setting.
Finally, 350 metres of CS’ GFS 40.3 expansion joint covers were integrated seamlessly into the building’s design. The covers include side frames that sit flush with the floor, with a minimal 3mm recess designed specifically to accommodate a vinyl finish. This ensures a smooth transition that is crucial in a hospital setting where beds and medical carts are frequently moved across floors. The smooth surface of the gaskets, devoid of grooves, not only facilitates easy cleaning but also minimises the risk of germ accumulation, supporting the hospital’s stringent infection control protocols. This subtle yet crucial feature maintained the facility’s sleek appearance while ensuring optimal functionality and hygiene.
The successful integration of durable materials, innovative technologies, and thoughtful designs at ICI de Brest highlights how the right construction materials can play a vital role in enhancing the safety, functionality, and comfort of healthcare environments.
