Efficient functional planning enables a low building massing to the eastern and northern streetscapes and the southern facilities, with taller western carpark and service structures buffering the central clinical building.
The planning reinforces the strong linear geometry of its urban and landscape setting and aligns key circulation to ocean views.
The major central courtyard brings therapeutic vegetation into the heart of the hospital and provides a simple wayfinding reference for all public circulation.
The building design employs the simple, economical but layered construction familiar as a respected regional architectural language.
This character is best demonstrated in the Outdoor Room, a dignified but informal arrival space employing the simple pleasures of breezes, sunlight and shadow.
The day to day experience of patients, staff and visitors reflects the environmental credentials of the hospital. Sustainable design consultants Aurecon estimate the hospital’s predicted reduction in energy consumption to be at least 20 percent at full occupancy, with a 40 percent peak energy demand reduction compared to an equivalent facility.
Exemplar Health, a consortium comprised of Lendlease, Siemens and Capella Capital, in partnership with Queensland Health, targeted a four-star rating but by using innovative design and construction techniques have been able to position the regional hospital as a national leader in sustainable healthcare achieving 6 Star Green Star ratings for design and construction.
