Aga Khan Clinic

Sometimes the predecessor is so strong that any structure falls into the shadow; i.e. of the Aga Khan hospital Complex. The Aga khan Clinic situated in Clifton residential area sets itself apart both from neighboring surroundings and also from its alma-meter. It is definitely an off shoot of the main complex but still retains it identity. The horizontally and low lying structure is its first and fore most difference from the main complex albeit the staircase. Though there are echoes from the past in its subtle detailing and the main staircase but that’s where the similarity ends. The architect in question here is Samar Ali Khan, who has never before undertaken any such project that is a clinic of this category nor any Aga Khan project. But this is primarily the main reason for the infusion of freshness and innovative detailing, though still relating to the older main complex.

The specifications stipulated that the building should have an “Aga Khan Hospital feel” and at the same time carve an identity of its own.

The two planes in elevation are connected with the sculptural staircase, which comes to life with its detail and choreographed lighting. The horizontally and low lying building is further emphasized by the linear lines in color crete and ‘lasbela’ stone cladding; materials which stand the test of time and are maintenance free. The structure, a powerful counterpoint of any project is usually concealed from the human eye but here it is revitalized with sensitive detailing. The wooden rails on staircase, the jaali framework all create a harmonious blend of different materials. The exterior fowls into the interior without any announcement, the open spaces in the interior and the courtyard outside all connect to bring harmony and continuity to the clinic.

The concrete external details and floor patterns are simple and yet graceful. This simplicity is carried on into the interiors where the color palette is a careful homogenized play of colors in achre, green and rust with the muted tones of oak wood details in furniture.

The plan is easy going and functional and very accessible in case of emergencies. The research and laboratories are placed away from the eyes of the visitors while the patient’s immediate needs are on the peripheral hinges. The facility is equipped with the state of the art medical facilities. The basement has been given an extensive usage which benefits the client though it was not specified in the brief of the project. The plan cannot go wrong but it’s the interior, the environment created within the walls brings a space alive. It’s not a necessity that clinics and hospitals have to be cold, impersonal grey spaces, there can exist a vibrancy too, colors and textures have an indelible impact on our senses and are a science on itself. If the architect has a penchant for bare walls or stark interiors it is only because they serve to focus attention on the exciting spaces they contain.

The building is beautifully lit with natural light by dramatic perforations both by the vertical windows and the jaali like screens which not only diffuse the light but casts interesting intricate play of light and shadow in the interesting circulation areas. Layered spaces open to the sky and strongly juxtaposed forms and colors create a vibrant series of spaces that are constantly changing as one move through the building.

The external landscape cannot go un-mentioned since it is so intricately woven into the entire project and is dexterously handled in an artistic way. Though minimalistic in its design approach, it is more of hard landscape then soft. The flora and fauna have been painstakingly selected to compliment as well as flourish in the Karachi climate and sea breeze.