Ulster Hospital Inpatient Ward Block wins ‘Best External Environment’ at the 2017 Building Better Healthcare Awards

Ulster Hospital Inpatient Ward Block, the first phase of the extensive £261m redevelopment of the Ulster Hospital in Belfast, has won ‘Best External Environment’ at the 2017 Building Better Healthcare Awards.  The BREEAM ‘Excellent’ hospital was also Highly Commended in the Acute Hospital Development Category. The BBH awards celebrate and reward the best of health and social care architecture in the UK and further afield.

Gillespies were appointed by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to create a generous landscaped external environment that would provide a stimulating and enjoyable space for patients, visitors and staff. A series of landscaped courtyards offer places for staff and patients to sit and repose among blocks of colourful and sensory planters. The introduction of distinctive design features and bespoke artworks throughout the landscape aids wayfinding and orientation, and is further enhanced through the placement of main circulation and waiting areas overlooking these courtyards.

Gillespies partner Michael Sharp, commented “We are delighted with this award, the external environment design was a great team effort over many years and we are very proud of what has been delivered”.