Clean bill of health

The formulation of the design brief for Wellington Regional Hospital commenced a number of years before the final design was drawn up. The project was documented and commissioned by the Capital & Coast District Health Board, which gathered together 60 user groups clinicians, nurses and other hospital staff, as well as patients and families to give feedback on design ideas. Out of this process, a robust design brief was created, says project director Liz Maddison.

"The six-storey building has been designed so that departments and services that have close operational links are positioned near each other, making it easier for staff and patients to move between them. There is also a strong emphasis on the needs of visitors and family, with whanau rooms on each floor, plenty of sitting areas, and, in some wards, rooms large enough for family members to stay overnight."

The foyer area contains a cafe and other related retailers, and features displays of historic material from the old hospital. The cafe will open onto a large landscaped courtyard, with part of the entrance facade of the 70-year-old front block on display.

"Developing a hospital while maintaining normal operations was a challenge that was overcome through a decanting and staging process," says Maddison.

For more information, contact Capital & Coast District Health Board, Private Bag 7902, Wellington, phone (04) 385 5999. Email: liz.maddison@ccdhb.org.nz. To find out more about C&C DHB and health services in the region, visit the website: www.ccdhb.org.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas