![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_1.jpg)
Pharmacy M by CAAN Architecten
A cross-shaped window in the sliding door of this Belgian pharmacy transforms into a green sign during opening hours.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_2.jpg)
Pharmacy M was recently completed by Belgian studio CAAN Architecten and is situated on the site of a former farm in the outskirts of Ghent.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_3.jpg)
The sales floor occupies the entire ground floor of the building, while a lab can be found in the basement and a small apartment is located on the first floor.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_4.jpg)
The pharmacy is constructed from grey brickwork but also features glass walls on three elevations.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_5.jpg)
The first floor apartment can only be accessed though the shop and opens out to a roof terrace.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_6.jpg)
A few other pharmacies from the Dezeen archive include one with a facade punctured by Braille lettering and another with a tree-like green panel ceiling - see more stories about pharmacies here.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_7.jpg)
Photography is by Thomas De Bruyne.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_8.jpg)
Here are some more details from the architects:
The pharmacy used to be located at an old farm on the existing parcel. The parcel is situated next to the main road populated by a diverse array of types of building.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_9.jpg)
Due to the outdated facilities and limited potential of the farm, it was a logical step to demolish the farm and to start from scratch.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_10.jpg)
At the front side (Keistraat) the new volume has been placed on the same border line as the old farm to integrate the new construction into the existing context.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_11.jpg)
The program of the pharmacy defined the design of the building.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_12.jpg)
The ground floor locates all the necessary facilities for a modern pharmacy, such as an extensive sales area, a night safe, a preparation area…
The surrounded glass wall creates a light and transparency which leads to a greater accessibility.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_13.jpg)
The basement has been used for storage and lab area.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_14.jpg)
At the first floor a private space is located with bathroom, kitchen/ dining/ sleeping area. The terrace and green roof elevate the entire space. The green roof is also a visible mark from the street side.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_15.jpg)
The design and material choices (glass, dark grey bricks) form the modern shape of the building, which we consider to be well integrated in its surrounding context.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_16.jpg)
The transparent and minimal appearance of the building makes it more accessible, identifiable… a ‘landmark’.
![Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten Pharmacy M by Caan Architecten](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2011/09/dezeen_Pharmacy-M-by-Caan-Architecten_17.jpg)
The building contributes to a more contemporary way of service, which was required for this pharmacy.