Mzuzu Clinic, Malawi

This extension to Mzuzu University's medical clinic, which treats 1,400 people per month, is our second project in the region. The project was delivered as part of our Developing Countries work, providing engineering expertise on community projects that normally can’t access this kind of assistance.

The exterior of a brick-walled building, with narrow windows, lit by sunlight

Key information

Architect

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

Client

Mzuzu University

Value

Undisclosed

Year of Completion

2015

Sector

Services

Challenge

When the clinic first opened its doors in 2006, prior to the extension, it was staffed by one clinician and two nurses. Today, the eight-person Clinic sees an average of 1,400 patients a month. Additional space was desperately needed to accommodate the increasing patronage and improve the amenities. Working with Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, we provided advice on environmental performance, daylighting and foul water drainage.

Clerestory windows draw natural daylight into the building. The project not only delivers much-needed resources to the area, but also helps develop skills and technological capabilities for local people. The building orientation and roof design provide shading to control solar gains. Sisalation insulation and a cavity in the roof buildup help limit overheating and the rooms are naturally ventilated by louvred glazing.

The blocks' thermal mass stabilises the internal temperature, limiting extreme variations. Stabilised soil blocks provide a cost-effective walling solution.