”Achieving an optimum sound environment for the premature babies is of outmost importance to us.”
Siri Lilliesköld, Care Developer, Maternity Ward
Project details: BB Sophia, Sophiahemmet, Stockholm, Sweden
Building owner: Praktikertjänst
Architect: Reflex Arkitekter
Built: 2012-2013
Sweden’s largest privately owned hospital
Praktikertjänst’s new maternity ward with the highest level of medical security at Sophiahemmet in Stockholm includes a ward for newborns and one neonatal ward as well as one Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on each floor connected to operating theatres and delivery rooms. The ICUs are fully equipped to care for critically ill children. One ICU is operational 24/7, to care for the pregnant or newly delivered women with critical complications. The maternity ward adds approximately 4000 new delivery beds per year; a welcome addition for Stockholm’s expanding population.
A healing sound environment is prioritised
Practically all areas at BB Sophia have fully covering sound absorbing ceilings to reduce sound levels and the activity taking place in each space has been considered when planning the acoustics. For example, the shared kitchen areas have acoustic ceilings to lower sound levels and facilitate a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The beautifully decorated delivery rooms all have an outlook onto surrounding greenery, medical equipment are cleverly stored away from sight and each room has its own birthing pool. Working with all senses supports the patients in the strenuous labour.
Hearing impairments more common in premature babies
The neonatal ward receives perhaps the highest priority as the premature babies are so vulnerable. Sound levels in and around the incubators are very high so the room requires maximum sound absorption. In addition to the ceilings, sound absorbing screens are also intended to be included in the fit-out.
BB Sophia opened 2014 and is another step forward for inclusion and continuity for the pregnant and newly delivered mums and an optimal start to family life.