CircleBath

The building provides operating theatres, bedrooms, consultation, treatment, recovery spaces and both in-patient and out-patient accommodation.

The hospital is planned around a central atrium, promoting a sense of orientation and intimacy. Divisions between departments are minimised, reducing walking distances for staff. The double-height atrium forms the focus for patients, staff and visitors, with private consultation rooms leading from it at ground level and in-patient bedrooms arranged above. The main reception point, café and nurses’ station occupy the atrium where daylight naturally fills the spaces.

The building is dug into its hillside site. The northern façade uses dark panelling at the lower levels, while on the south, glazing opens out to views over the surrounding countryside. The rectangular upper volume and roof, enclosing all twenty-eight bedrooms, is clad in a lattice of aluminium shingles.

Throughout the building, there is an emphasis on natural light and views. Balconies line the building’s edges, oriented to maximise views across the surrounding countryside.