Forte Health Hospital Redevelopment / 2018

Wilson and Hill Architects were engaged by Forte Health Hospital to master plan, design and implement a reconfiguration of spaces to increase the hospitals overnight bed capacity and rationalise Theatre admissions.

Stage 1 consisted of the relocation of administration staff and their integration into the neighbouring tenants fitout. The vacation of the admin space made way for a new 2 bed ward room and attached ensuite. Finishes were kept consistent with existing ward adjacent to ensure the new room fully integrated with the look and feel of the existing Hospital.

Stage 2 involved the relocation of the Hospital Reception and administration to the ground level allowing for a direct link between the new reception and the main lobby of the building. The key outcome was the enhancement of a patients experience on arrival. Lighting, material selection and branding makes the reception counter the main focus for the space, further focusing the visitor and making wayfinding inherent. The new fitout also incorporates open plan workstations for 13 staff, managerial offices, meeting rooms and admin work spaces all required for the running of a hospital. All fixtures and fittings have been selected to reinforce the Forte Health Brand.

Due to the relocation of the Hospital Reception and Administration space was released on level 2 to allow a new 6 bedroom ward to be constructed. Designed to maximise the use of space and light its location adjacent to Recovery provides for a successful patient flow and the ability to share amenities. Due to the incorporation of all facilities required, including Clean & Dirty utility, Kitchen, Staff base and storage rooms the new ward can be fully independent, or operate as an overflow for the primary ward on level 1. Finishes were selected for their sustainability ratings and their consistency with the existing ward to ensure the same quality experience is had by all patients.

The final stage was to reconfigure the Theatre Admissions area to enhance the use of available space and improve patient flow. The new rational layout provides for 4 x exam rooms, 4 x hold rooms, a children’s play room and a staff base. The layout makes use of the natural light from the buildings atrium and allows smooth transition for the patients into theatre. All materials are consistent with the other areas of the hospital to ensure the new fitout maintains the sustainability credentials central to Forte Health’s ethos.