Field Hospitals in the pandemic:

Critical reflections on sustainability and ephemeral architecture

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the widespread adoption of field hospitals as emergency solutions for rapidly expanding healthcare capacity. This article presents a critical reflection on the architectural and sustainable strategies adopted in these temporary structures, based on the analysis of public documents and reports related to the Lagoa-Barra and Parque dos Atletas hospitals in Rio de Janeiro. The qualitative approach is based on secondary sources, enabling the identification of both achievements and challenges. Positive aspects include the use of ephemeral architecture, modular systems, and strategic site selection. However, issues such as limited spatial sectorization, environmental comfort, and urban impact are also highlighted. The lack of detailed technical data and post-occupancy evaluations reveals significant gaps in the documentation process. This reflection aims to inform future design guidelines by emphasizing the integration of sustainability, construction speed, and spatial quality in emergency healthcare infrastructures.