High quality learning facilities for doctors of the future
To help fulfil the UK Government’s aim of increasing the number of doctors in the National Health Service (NHS), three medical school facilities were planned for Plymouth, Truro and Exeter. Hyder was selected as part of the design team for these new developments which encompass teaching, research laboratories and library facilities.
A key issue in the design brief was energy efficiency. This was achieved through value management and collaborative working including:
• minimal reliance on forced ventilation
• atria to enable natural airflow
• an exposed concrete floor providing high thermal mass
• intelligent building environment computer control system
Progressive and efficient use of structural forms and materials combined with airflow and intelligent heating systems have created energy efficient environments. Large open spaces designed through the use of “Slimfloor” beams and hollowcore concrete units presented flat soffit areas of exposed concrete which allowed daytime thermal absorption.
Architecturally, the concept was to produce strong aesthetic buildings, consistent with the West Country, but which maintain a corporate identity.