Northern General Hospital Main Entrance

The Brief

The existing entrance, being constrained and located next to the A&E department, was difficult to access. Externally, the entrance was unwelcoming and the patient drop-off areas required improvement. Given the constrained site, and the need to maintain a live site for patients and staff, it was essential that the solution was deliverable as quickly as possible, meeting programmes and also budgets. As always, consideration was given to the deliverability of the design from the outset, including ‘lay-down’ space and the need for the contractor’s logistical operations within the constrained site.

The Design

The Main Entrance was transformed to significantly improve patients’ and visitors’ experience. The reception area was opened out to allow for effective way-finding, and the retail facilities were modernised.

The Outcome

The modern canopy provides appropriate shelter for patient drop-off and pick up, and creates a clear and visible entrance to the building. Bold external signage ensures visibility of the building from a distance. This greater prominence eases the patients’ experience of visiting the hospital for the first time.