As the war in Ukraine continues, many soldiers and veterans are surviving life changing injuries that affect both body and mind. Physical trauma is often accompanied by profound psychological impacts including PTSD, anxiety and depression. Recovery therefore requires more than surgery alone. It requires environments that support dignity, emotional safety and the gradual rebuilding of independence.
The proposed rehabilitation centre for the First Voluntary Surgical Hospital in Ivano Frankivsk seeks to respond to this challenge by creating a calm and therapeutic setting where physical and psychological recovery can happen together. Developed through collaboration between Ukrainian clinicians, Archus healthcare planners and Floyd Slaski Architects, the project proposes a 40 bed rehabilitation facility designed around a structured 21 day pathway integrating physiotherapy, occupational therapy and psychological support.
From the outset, the design has been guided by a simple ambition: to create an environment that feels humane, understandable and supportive during what is often the most vulnerable stage of recovery. The building is organised around a clear circulation spine linking patient rooms, therapy spaces and shared areas. This structure helps patients orient themselves easily and regain confidence as they begin to move independently through the building.
Mental health support is embedded within the spatial organisation rather than separated from it. A small dedicated mental health ward with direct access to a secure therapeutic garden provides privacy and safety while maintaining connection to the wider rehabilitation community. This approach allows appropriate separation where needed while avoiding the stigma that can sometimes accompany mental health care.
Nature and daylight play an important role in the recovery experience. Landscaped gardens, outdoor exercise areas and accessible terraces extend therapy beyond the building itself, supporting both physical rehabilitation and psychological wellbeing. Views to greenery and generous natural light create moments of calm and reflection that can support recovery from trauma.
The architecture is deliberately modest and human in scale. Stepped rooflines and articulated volumes allow the building to sit comfortably within its residential surroundings, avoiding an institutional character. Warm materials, generous glazing and shaded façades contribute to patient comfort and energy efficiency, supporting a sustainable and welcoming environment.
The design also acknowledges the realities of healthcare delivery in a conflict setting. A basement rehabilitation gym has been designed to function as a reinforced shelter during air raid alerts, allowing therapy and recovery activities to continue safely when required. This dual use approach helps maintain continuity of care while reducing disruption and anxiety for patients and staff.
Throughout the project, the clinical team’s experience of caring for wounded soldiers has been central in shaping the brief and design approach. Their insights into patient needs, recovery journeys and daily hospital life have informed the spatial organisation and therapeutic priorities of the building.
While modest in scale, the project hopes to demonstrate how thoughtful design can contribute to healing in the most challenging circumstances, supporting recovery not only from injury but also from the wider trauma of war.
