Sheffield Hospital : Architecture

Jul 2008 £30m hospital extension gives Sheffield first class facilities Leading architectural practice, Sheppard Robson, has provided a template for future healthcare projects in Yorkshire following completion of the £30m extension to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital. Opened in April 2007, The Hadfield Building, designed by Sheppard Robson for the Kajima PFI consortium, was the most significant building commissioned by the hospital since the 1980’s. Making use of a steeply sloping site that was formerly a car park, the innovative design provides 168 hospital beds in 117,600 of space for medical wards, support facilities and administration areas. Mary-Ann Crompton, lead architect for Sheppard Robson, commented: “The building was intended to provide patients, with a non-clinical, soothing environment that aids the healing process. We achieved this with a design based around two low-rise L-shaped buildings accessed by a central atrium. This gives patients a view over landscaped courtyards while promoting a sense of security. “The themes of warmth and comfort are reflected in the timber cladding and transparent glazing used in construction, and in the arts for health initiatives that provide the wards with a distinctive atmosphere.” The Hadfield Building’s interior, which was designed by ID:SR, Sheppard Robson’s interior design group, took inspiration from the work of textile artist Lucien Day to give each of the wards a seasonal motif. A mosaic by Yorkshire artist, Joanna Cassell, was also installed at ground level. Mary-Ann Crompton added: “Ensuring patients get a pleasant, stimulating hospital environment is a great aid to recovery and helps the surrounding community to be proud of their local hospital. She concluded: “We are delighted to have been able to work with the Trust and Kajima on this landmark project and provide a blueprint for desirable, high quality healthcare facilities in Yorkshire.” Sheffield Northern General Hospital photos / information from Sheppard Robson Architects 040708