Celebrated as a global expert in paediatric design, (BLP) has been working with the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Children’s Cancer Institute, and NSW Health Infrastructure, to complete the design development phase of Sydney Children’s Hospital Stage 1 and Australia’s first Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Randwick.
“Our goal with these projects is to use our expertise in paediatric design to build a state-of-the-art precinct that supports patients, their families, and the support networks around them,” says Tara Veldman, Managing Director, BLP.
Understanding the recovery process to be intrinsically linked to minimising a child’s stress and anxiety, the projects are envisaged as a ‘home away from home’. “It is designed as a holistic place of healing, for children, their families, carers, hospital and research staff while seamlessly incorporating the latest technology,” says Veldman.
BLP has collaborated with clinicians, researchers, children, families, and carers to develop a ‘bench to bedside’ design that will facilitate a specialised approach to individualised care. Moreover, the co-location of paediatric healthcare, education, and research environments will accelerate learning discoveries, engage clinical innovation with bedside care and meet the complex health needs of the State’s growing population.
“BLP has responded to the brief with both creative and technical expertise, designing with head and heart, to deliver a purpose-built, playful and supportive environment for children and their families. The new precinct responds not only to the needs of the child but the entire family and community as a whole,” says Veldman.
In translating evidence-based research into a physical environment, innovative, sustainable, and receptive design outcomes are ensured for both the hospital and children’s needs.
Designed to reflect a known environment, the shared public courtyard and walkway are specifically designed with fun and inclusivity to help young children feel more comfortable at a stressful time. Play areas, arts and craft spaces, and interactive facilities are among the destinations for children to play and discover.
Biophilic design has been seamlessly integrated into the design through natural light, physical and visual contact with green spaces. Bringing the surrounding natural environment inside through materials, colour, rhythm, and interpretive architecture contribute to the child patient’s healing and wellbeing. Unique to the project is the adjacent accessible green space or balcony from each ward and laboratory on every hospital level.
“We considered the site’s orientation, connectivity within the precinct, technical requirements, and how the facility is to be used and experienced. Our fundamental goal is to provide the best design for paediatric care, crafting places that are sensitive to the needs of children and their families,” says Ivan Turcinov, Design Lead, BLP.
Following a competitive procurement process, the contract to construct the Sydney Children’s Hospital and Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre was awarded to John Holland.
Billard Leece Partnership (BLP)
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