By Sheppard & Rout Architects
Developing on from Stage I completed two years earlier, the brief for Stage II of Burwood Hospital called for four new operating theaters and associated TSSU, Admitting unit, SCU, and surgical ward. The project was broken into three structures all closely linked together – the existing concourse, the link corridor, and the theatre building.
The architectural outcome draws reference from the existing older brick clad building prevalent across the hospital site, as well as from Sheppard & Rout’s Stage one’s architectural essence. Similar to Stage I a series of layered walls, this time glass and brick, aims to dissolve a hard entry for patients being admitted.
There was a desire, where possible, to stay clear of the typical cold, clinical and uninviting attributes of a hospital. The existing spinal concourse was extended using a palette of natural materials such as concrete columns, glulam beams, and perforated plywood ceiling panels. Furthermore seating for patients and visitors is provided throughout the development, almost always with views directly into landscaped courtyards to retain the solid connection with the surrounding environ established by Stage I.
We aim to produce humanist architecture comprised of stimulating and inspirational spaces and places.
We are a design-based practice that believes in providing tailor-made solutions to an individual client's needs. The fundamental objective of the practice is to develop architecture that is appropriate to its specific site, wider context and intended use while being robust, flexible and environmentally-aware.
These variables are used along with the appropriate structural considerations to develop buildings with well-suited form and style, instead of approaching the design from a stylistic standpoint.
The practice was established in 1982 in Christchurch by David Sheppard and Jonty Rout. In its 40 years the practice has carried out a wide range of projects covering many types and in numerous geographic locations. The founding partners brought to the practice extensive design and construction experience gained while working with other offices in both New Zealand and overseas. Tim Dagg joined Sheppard & Rout in 1986 and Jasper van der Lingen in 1993 and they both joined David Sheppard as Directors in 2006.
With David Sheppard now retired and Jonty very sadly passed away the practice is led by Directors Jasper van der Lingen and Tim Dagg and three Associate Directors; Matt Gutsell, Jonathan Kennedy and Steven Orr.