Clean bill of health

In recent years the emphasis in hospital design has changed from purely functional to a more holistic approach. For the design of the Wellington Regional Hospital, CCM Architects, in association with health planner Geoff Driscoll, has focused on providing efficiency, and emotional and physical accessibility.

As it is located in the historic residential suburb of Newtown, there was need for the hospital to respect the local streetscape, says CCM's John Rogers.

"The form of the building is deliberately articulated to respect the forms and textures of the local urban fabric. The distinctive terracotta tiling around the podium and the light colours of the tower levels above all meld into this character neighbourhood. The terracotta tiles carry through the entrance to a dramatic atrium space that is designed as an internal street, with street lamp lighting, extensive skylighting and clear views through to the other side of the building."

This open and airy reception atrium acts as the heart of the hospital and is welcoming and reassuring, with soft tones and visually warming wood panelling.

While a patient focus was maintained through the design process, the layout of the hospital is driven by the necessity for both operational and staffing efficiency.

"When planning a hospital, it is important to minimise travel distances. Nursing stations are strategically located so that nurses can easily survey the ward they are looking after," says Rogers. "Similarly, departments which are heavily used by the public, such as outpatient facilities, are located directly off the atrium."

For further information, contact CCM Architects, PO Box 2182, Wellington. Website: www.ccm.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas