The Geraldton Mid-West Cancer Hostel will provide essential short stay accommodation for patients receiving cancer treatment and their carers who travel from remote areas. SPH architecture + interiors was engaged by the Department of Communities on behalf of the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) to deliver seven motel-style units at Geraldton Regional Hospital.
SPH architecture + interiors commission was for full service including all stages from sketch design to Superintendents Representative. The design considered many competing objectives including achieving a homely feel, infection control, accessibility, passive solar principals, protection from strong prevailing winds, minimising maintenance, durability, indigenous culture, and patient wellness. Coordination was required with the hospitals linen, cleaning, maintenance and nursing teams who will provide services to the hostel. Facing North, the units have been designed to be homely and well connected to the external space.
A screened private terrace at the entry to each unit provides a layer or filter between private interior and the public gardens. This allows occupants to maintain a discreet connection with others to assist in their mental rehabilitation after cancer treatment. Rooms are also designed with careful consideration to infection control, durability and maintenance, whilst being mindful that the spaces are homely rather than clinical.
SPH architecture + interiors has a specialist health planning team led by Director and qualified health planner, Ali Devellerez and includes architect and registered nurse, Cherie Kaptein, who assisted with project review to ensure this was achieved. The design phase required a series of eight user group meetings during the compressed design phases. This was led by senior design architect, Nick Silich, supported by the specialist health planning team. SPH designed this project in Revit and used the 3D modelling to assist in a greater understanding from initial concept, through to internal room layouts and amenities. This ensured quick review and approval. The project timeline was closely tied to the Federal funding model and we were therefore required to work within a very compressed design and documentation programme of 12 weeks. During this time, we also engaged a team of consultants and completed the interior design for the project in parallel with the architectural design programme. The project budget was extremely tight given the significant site constraints and limited funding. The tender package was delivered fully costed by the quantity surveyor within the required timelines. Following tender the construction contract was under budget allowing landscape elements to be added to the contract. The project reached practical completion on time and under budget and was officially opened by WACHS on the 30th of May 2018.
