The centrepiece of a $1.1billion overhaul of Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital designed by BVN Donovan Hill was opened in December.
The Acute Services Building was opened by NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and Health Minister Jillian Skinner, part of what O’Farrell described as “the largest hospital redevelopment in NSW history”.
Designed by BVN Donovan Hill, working for Thiess and Infrashore, the new hospital has over 5,000 rooms, with 4,000 staff and 126 Departments and is one of the most technologically advanced hospitals in New South Wales.
Sue Shilbury, General Manager of RNS/Ryde Health Service noted the impact the design has had on collaboration is profound and pointed out in her opening comments that “it has dramatically changed the way the people interact with one another which is a direct reflection of the beautiful environment we find ourselves in”.
BVN Donovan Hill Principal Abbie Galvin commented on “how design has had the power in such a large project to manage the level of complexity to make significant changes to the way people work.”
The design began by identifying a wide range of clinician groups to workshop with to ensure all clinical requirements were taken into account, noted Galvin.
She said, “this collaboration enabled us to incorporate the highly complex mix of activities and design an improved work environment.”
For example all 40 outpatient clinics are now located on the ground floor level making access for visitors and clinicians alike easier and faster.
Health Minister, Jillian Skinner noted how Royal North Shore Hospital has been recognised for providing some of the best medical treatment in Australia and said, “now you have one of the finest buildings to provide it.”
Images courtesy Thiess.
