From the layout to the way staff interacts with the building users, the Centre marks a significant departure from traditional NHS ways of thinking and working. The design is focused on improving the patient experience by delivering civic environments that are easier to navigate and a more vibrant and attractive place to work and visit.

The central atrium space is both vital to both the social function of the centre and fundamental to wayfinding through a vertically layered building. Drawing on evidence-based research, all in-patient beds are provided in single ensuite bedrooms which have been demonstrated to improve patient recovery and reduced cross infection. Interior design and selection of signage and materials reflect the centre’s local identity rather than National Health Service standards. The renewed environment facilitates the reinvention of staff culture which is pivotal to the success of this new model for patient-centred healthcare.