Hospitals are programmatic in nature. It is the space in, between and around these programs that presents opportunities for individuals to remove themselves from the clinical environment. A chance to capture a view, take in some sunlight, have a break, to go outside. Spaces that provide a chance to think – reflect, relax and heal. By linking these possibilities to SA Health’s new ‘Model of Care’ philosophies, in particular the notion of a healing environment and providing individuals primary care at the point of contact - at the patients’ bedside - the drivers for the WRCC redevelopment was formed.
Adopting these core values of the entire design team aimed to produced an integrated design outcome that responds to the ability to provide spaces that remove the occupants from the clinical. From architect to landscape architect, through to the inclusion of local aboriginal based art and healing installations that have been imbedded into the built form. All disciplines aimed to produce a place of interaction and healing for the greater Whyalla community.