RIAI | Irish Architecture Awards

Citation

Western - Over £200,000

The two main elements which define this phase of Limerick Regional Hospital, are the curving axial street and the use of colour.

The essential concern of the building design is to cater for the patient and the visitor. The entrance area with its double height volume leading into the curving street creates a dramatic first impression. The different departments of the hospital, organised off this street, have their own identity expressed by the strong use of colours on floors, walls and furniture. This new phase of the hospital contrasts positively with the adjoining existing hospital and brings a new and refreshing vibrancy to the facility.

Architects' Comment
The project comprised a major extension to the 1955 Regional Hospital to provide an operating department, intensive care unit and outpatients department. The brief also included the first portion of the main hospital street to serve future phases.

The objective throughout was to achieve, for both staff, visitors and patients a building of high quality in terms of spatial experience, that was easy to use and to find ones way within, as well as being a functional and efficient series of departments, where possible, was a priority. Colour was used to both define and to achieve a sense of place for the visitor within a very large footprint.

Clients' Comments
We in the Mid-Western Health Board are justifiably proud of our new facility at the Regional Hospital, Limerick. The new building is a radical departure from traditional hospital architecture and since it opened has generated much favourable public reaction. With its welcoming, spacious entrance, and wide hospital street featuring the innovative "serpentine" wall, the building creates a modern warm atmosphere for patients, visitors and staff alike. The award is for us a formal recognition of the successful teamwork of Client, Design team, and Contractor, which was a mjojr feature of theis project.