A new 24-hour healthcare service, (med)24, is inspired by both medical and spa environments. Featuring a carefully considered layout, lighting and atmosphere, the London health centre puts patient experience at the heart of its ethos.
Threefold Architects is behind the 7,000 sq ft healthcare facility in London, with every aspect – from the open-plan reception to the calibrated lighting allowing for reading – considered to ensure optimal comfort for the patient. ‘Both the client and ourselves were keen to bring a fresh thinking and design approach to the project and to this sector,’ says Threefold’s director Jack Hosea, explaining why the centre takes its inspiration from hospitality rather than healthcare.
‘Healthcare is generally about getting well when you have something wrong with you, whereas the approach of med(24) is more holistic and centred around monitoring and maintaining wellness, whilst also being able to solve issues that may arise. We strove to create a building that embodied wellness through both the physical journey and the experience of a series of spaces that are human centred, calming and uplifting. Not starting from a traditional medical mindset helped free us from the clichéd conventions of medical design whilst creating a clinic that is fully compliant with Care Quality Commission standards.’
The new private medical clinic includes five consulting rooms, two treatment rooms and a therapy suite; the interior design is used to link the different spaces, with elements such as lighting and the use of natural materials providing a seamless transition. ‘We considered the experience for the patient, thinking about how each space, each interaction and each step of a person’s journey could be designed to make one feel better,’ says Hosea.
The end result has more in common with a spa than a medical facility: ‘It is comfortable and spacious, full of natural light, natural materials, planting, high-quality acoustics and fresh air services. The experience is enhanced by carefully choreographed interaction with staff; patients are guided through each step of their consultation, with spaces to decompress and relax along the way.’ §
