CLINIQUE LA VALLEE - CAGE ESCALIER & TUNNEL

Vertical circulation is a key element in the organisation of Clinique La Vallée. Given the diversity of services provided and the significant flow of patients between levels, the staircase plays both a major functional and architectural role.

Complemented by three lifts, the stairwell is composed of flights of exposed precast concrete stairs. At its centre, a powder-coated metal balustrade unfolds like a continuous ribbon from the basement to the fourth floor, creating a strong and recognisable vertical gesture.

On the landings, a warm beige tone echoes the timber palette used throughout the rest of the clinic. As the stairwell forms part of the emergency escape route, fire-safety requirements called for RF1-classified materials, ruling out the use of timber veneer in this area. The colour therefore evokes the warmth of wood while fully meeting regulatory constraints.

Lighting is integrated with the same level of care as in the rest of the clinic. Indirect light is concealed beneath the stainless-steel handrail that follows the stair flights. Each landing is also punctuated by a decorative light fitting, itself providing indirect illumination, in order to maintain a soft and consistent atmosphere.

At basement level, a nineteen-metre tunnel forms a strategic connection with the building located on the opposite side of the road. This building houses operating theatres directly associated with the clinic’s services, allowing patients to move from consultation to outpatient surgery without having to go outside.

Although primarily functional, this underground passage has been treated as a fully considered architectural space. The walls and ceiling are clad in fluted timber panels running the full length of the tunnel. Indirect linear lighting emphasises the perspective, while accent lighting highlights the signage elements. This attention to a transitional space that is often overlooked reflects the overall ambition of the project: to provide a coherent, comfortable and high-quality experience throughout every stage of the patient journey.

Architectural design and design direction: ATELIER F.

Construction management: MILANI architecture sa

Photography © Christophe Voisin