Shenzhen Children’s Hospital Longhua Campus has received a “Highly Commended” distinction at the European Healthcare Design Awards 2026, becoming the only project from China recognized among this year’s award winners.

The hospital was honored in the “Design for large-scale healthcare infrastructure” category for its combination of clinical functionality, child-centered design and long-term strategic value. 

An aerial view of Shenzhen Children’s Hospital Longhua Campus. Photos by Cai Weize

Located in the core area of Longhua’s central digital industry zone, the campus was designed to create a brighter and less intimidating environment for young patients. Six-story podium buildings and nine-story towers are arranged around courtyards and light wells, bringing natural light, ventilation and greenery into clinical and inpatient areas.

A sky garden located 7.2 meters above ground provides more than 5,000 square meters of landscaped space for patients, families and medical workers. The building also features a softly colored exterior, reading and play areas, therapeutic gardens and animal-themed corridors.

Child safety is incorporated throughout the campus. Corners and service counters within children’s reach have rounded, cushioned edges, while sinks, handrails and other facilities are designed for younger users.

A child-friendly nurses’ station at Shenzhen Children’s Hospital Longhua Campus features bright colors and service counters at different heights for children and adults.

The hospital also uses the site’s natural difference in elevation to separate pedestrians, vehicles and different types of hospital traffic. An internal “medical street” connects its principal departments, helping patients and visitors navigate the complex more efficiently.

Beyond its architectural achievements, the project supports Shenzhen’s efforts to build a child-friendly city by applying child-centered principles to a major public health facility. It also strengthens the city’s pediatric medical infrastructure while providing young patients and their families with a safer and more welcoming care environment.