This new unit is located adjacent to the existing Llandough Hospital on a steeply sloping site. The split, two storey development covers 25,000 sq ft and consists of three 19 bed inpatient beds. These wards form the wings off the central core and are themselves sub-divided into two smaller units which have their own day facilities. The varying range of bedroom and day spaces areas results in a stepped footprint facilitating a faceted arrangement which allows the plan to curve in response to the site constraints. This form provides visual interest externally and internally and removes any sense of an institutional feel from the building. A combination of buff coloured facing brickwork and white render over 1 and 2 storey's help to create a domestic scale whilst combining with a dramatically curving standing seam roof to give a contemporary aesthetic appropriate to the setting. Externally the site benefits from a south facing aspect within heavily landscaped grounds with panoramic views across the Vale of Glamorgan. The design and landscaping provides a harmonizing response to the site conditions using robust materials in a natural setting sited to minimize the impact within the larger context and with a focus on the creation of a healing environment for the patient.
The main entrance and reception is on the first floor and is accessed via a bridge link from the northern plateau. The main reception and waiting area leads to the therapy suite on the right hand wing. The Therapy suite has access to a landscaped roof terrace overlooking the gardens. The in-patient wards are located on the ground floor with access to the grounds and secure garden to provide relaxing areas for patients with soft landscaping complementing the existing natural context.
The design gave particular emphasis to the creation of stimulating spaces with the sensitive selection of finishes to ensure a relaxing and calming environment for the user. This is carried through to the exterior of the building