Fudan University Hospital Qingpu Branch Blends Tradition and Modernity with LOPO Terracotta
The Fudan University Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, affectionately known as the Red House Hospital, has been a beloved landmark in Shanghai. With the new Qingpu Branch, the goal was to retain the historical significance of the original while embracing modern, cutting-edge medical advancements. LOPO Terracotta Panels were selected for the exterior design, marrying tradition with contemporary hospital standards.
Colors and Materials
To capture the essence of the historic Red House Hospital while meeting the demands of modern architecture, LOPO Terracotta panels were chosen as the primary material for the façade. The ground floor features a transparent glass curtain wall, creating a light and open feel. Above, horizontal terracotta panels paired with dark gray aluminum windows balance the building’s functional requirements with aesthetic appeal. The curved design at the top effectively conceals rooftop equipment, adding to the unique and sleek look.
Structure and Implementation
The project deconstructed the red sections of the façade, utilizing different terracotta elements like rectangular and trapezoidal panels, curved terracotta, and even terracotta tubes. This combination of textures adds depth and variety, paying homage to the legacy of the Red House. LOPO’s terracotta was specifically customized for this project, breaking traditional limits through advanced processes like increasing clay thickness and sculpting curved surfaces.
To match the riverside location, LOPO Terracotta‘s installation created a “ripple effect” on the surface, with continuous concave textures and sloped tile stacking. This unconventional use of terracotta evokes memories of the original hospital while presenting a modern, dynamic look.
Advantages of LOPO Terracotta
- Superior Physical Properties
LOPO Terracotta panels are made from natural clay and quartz sand, shaped by extrusion and high-temperature firing. Their durability is exceptional, with no radioactivity, and they retain their vibrant natural colors—red, rust, and various earthy tones—without the need for additional coatings. These colors are long-lasting, even in harsh weather conditions.
LOPO Terracotta is lightweight due to its hollow structure, providing excellent insulation and reducing building load. Its anti-static, dust-repellent surface enhances maintenance ease, and its resistance to acids and alkalis ensures long-lasting beauty.
- Easy Installation and Maintenance
LOPO’s dry-hanging system allows for easy installation and replacement. The lightweight structure also reduces overall building load, and the material’s flexibility ensures precise cutting for any design, offering more creative possibilities.
Conclusion
The Fudan University Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital Qingpu Branch is designed as a healing space rooted in warmth and historical continuity. By integrating the iconic “Red House” style with modern medical standards, the building offers a welcoming, nurturing environment for patients. LOPO Terracotta played a key role in this transformation, helping to carry forward the legacy of the hospital while introducing fresh, modern elements.
Once completed, the hospital will be a beacon for the surrounding regions, providing high-level, specialized care in obstetrics, gynecology, and women’s health, further elevating healthcare standards across the Yangtze River Delta.
For more information on LOPO Terracotta and their range of architectural solutions, visit their official website: LOPO Terracotta.
Tags in this article: LOPO Terracotta, Fudan University Hospital, Qingpu Branch, Red House Hospital, terracotta cladding, terracotta panels, sustainable building, modern architecture, curved rooftop, hospital design
