Sustainable Use of Cultural Heritage in the Formation of Healing Environments: A Case Study of a Healthcare Facility on a Historic Urban Site

Seoul National University (SNU) Medical Campus and Hospital has undergone constant changes throughout its history, from its beginnings as the site of Kyungmo Palace, to its later development as Seoul Daehan Hospital. In the process of this change, the campus has become layered with sites of historical and cultural heritage and various architectural styles. This study examines the spatial location of medical/education facilities and their connectivity to heritage sites, and the formation of a “healing environment” that utilizes the historical/cultural heritage of SNU Medical Campus and Hospital, as well as the resulting sustainability of these heritage sites. This is accomplished by analyzing the layout of facilities, the spatial composition of the campus, and historical/cultural factors. The formation of healing environments for healthcare facilities traditionally employs the natural environment, and healing environments in urban areas commonly utilize landscapes. SNU Medical Campus and Hospital is an excellent case study for the future potential of utilizing cultural heritage sites as healing environments. The formation of a healing environment for medical spaces that utilizes the historical and cultural environment gives new meaning to cultural heritage through their sustainable use.