Unispace transformed a historic Munich site into a world-class surgical innovation and training academy for global medical technology leader Smith+Nephew. This 3,500 sqm flagship facility integrates advanced labs, VR training, and immersive exhibition spaces, creating a dynamic hub where thousands of healthcare professionals from around the world enhance their surgical skills. The design balances creativity, functionality, sustainability, and innovation, enhancing both user experience and educational impact.

The challenge was converting a 50-year-old former casino into a state-of-the-art academy. Originally designed for hospitality, the structure presented significant structural and logistical hurdles. Smith+Nephew required a flexible, multi-functional space to accommodate 5,000 healthcare professionals annually. The facility needed to integrate wet and dry labs, VR training areas, an auditorium and surgical training spaces, fostering collaboration in a high-performance environment. Unispace overcame these complexities through innovative design, advanced technology, and strategic collaboration.

The final design seamlessly integrates diverse functional spaces. Advanced surgical labs feature impact-resistant surfaces and antimicrobial coatings, ensuring hygiene and durability. VR training areas incorporate high-resolution interactive displays and immersive sound systems for an engaging learning experience. Exhibition spaces use modular displays and high-quality finishes, allowing for dynamic presentations and product showcases aligned with Smith+Nephew’s evolving technology.

To reinforce Smith+Nephew’s brand identity, Unispace incorporated elements reflecting its pioneering ethos. A refined colour palette, drawn from the client’s branding, unifies the facility’s aesthetic. High-quality glass, polished metals, and sleek finishes evoke innovation. Standout features include an interactive history wall crafted from backlit acrylic panels and a blue-lit entrance tunnel inspired by Munich’s Allianz Arena, ensuring strong visual impact and local relevance.

Sustainability was key, particularly in the wet and dry labs, which required precise environmental control. A new air-handling unit and a 70 sqm plant room maintain stable temperature and air quality, essential for medical research and training. Sustainable construction practices and energy-efficient systems reduce the academy’s environmental footprint while ensuring a future-ready learning space.

The academy’s design prioritises functionality, delivering adaptable spaces that support a broad range of activities. By seamlessly integrating technology, sustainability, and user-focused solutions, Unispace has transformed an ageing building into a world-class hub for medical training and research. The facility empowers healthcare professionals to engage with the latest surgical advancements, collaborate with global teams, and drive the future of patient care.