In 2010 we entered a competition to design a specialist cancer treatment centre for Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, an internationally renowned centre for clinical medicine. Our bold proposal highlights the trust’s reputation for top-quality care and was shortlisted among the best.
Our vision starts with a light, spacious entrance that offers glimpses into many areas of the building, exposing the hospital’s workings to visitors. Break-out spaces, rooftop gardens, terraces and a café offer communal space for patients, carers and staff to relax.
We made a point to connect the centre’s various departments in a manner that helps them work together more easily and shortens patients’ journeys around the grounds. Each treatment area is logically spaced and comfortable, and can be adapted for changes in demand, treatment processes and technology. The building’s exterior is wrapped in a mix of clear, translucent and opaque glass – a blend that lets in plenty of light but prevents solar gain. The external walls are to feature artwork that brings the hospital’s compassionate, in-touch approach to the fore.
We’ve created a modern, sustainable, adaptable plan to unify the hospital, minimise stress for patients and promote efficient treatment. It sets a new standard of excellence in one of the most important areas of healthcare today.
By focusing on the patient experience, we sought to design a building that could reinvent the very nature of cancer care.
