Teenage Cancer Trust Ward, Birmingham
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The new unit straddles the existing structures on the site
Chris Gascoigne Download Original
Unit for treating teenage cancer patients that extends from the existing oncology ward of Birmingham Children's Hospital
Housed in a linear pod the building moves away from the standardised, institutional format of hospitals, to achieve an informal atmosphere and a high quality of light, without compromising the practical functions of the unit.
The facade has an institutional look using non-rhythmical windows and a vibrant colour scheme. Inside, the long corridors are treated with vinyl supergraphic wallpaper and an 'inhabitation wall', in which bright cut-outs are lined with soft green polyurethane upholstery.
The interior is designed without columns to increase the flexibility of the the space. Instead, transluscent screens are installed to section areas. These screens are also implemented into the wards, allowing a four-bed space to divide into a more private, co-habiting dorm.
There is also a lack of suspended curtain rails which are replaced by curtains hanging from the ceiling. A high quality of light is achieved in the nurses station, which is completely skylit.
The social areas are fitted with colour change ceiling lights, to brighten the atmosphere. These cosmetic touches are intended to convey a youth culture persona, improving the patients' living environment.
Data
- Begun: Dec 2008
- Completed: Oct 2010
- Floor area: 400m2
- Sector: Healthcare
- Total cost: £2.2M
- Funding: Laurie Engel Fund and Derwent London
- Procurement: JCT SBC 05/XQ revision 1 2007 with bespoke amendments
- Address: Teenage Cancer Trust Ward, St Chads Queensway, City Centre, Birmingham, B4 6NH, United Kingdom
Professional Team 
- Architect: Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands
- Client: Teenage Cancer Trust and Birmingham Children’s Hospital
- Structural engineer: Heyne Tillett Steel
- M&E consultant: Norman Disney & Young
- Main contractor: Vinci
- Quantity surveyor: Jackson Coles
- Project manager: Jackson Coles
- M&E consultant: Norman Disney & Young
Suppliers
- Lighting consultant: GIA Equation