The major redevelopment project, which formed part of the first phase of The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust’s ‘Healthcare of Tomorrow’ programme, reinforces Race Cottam’s reputation as one of the country’s leading architects for NHS projects. The architects have previously completed a new Theatre Admissions Unit and Theatre refurbishment work along with a series of other improvements at the hospital.
Tim Robinson, Architect at Race Cottam, commented: “The objective of improving patient experience underpinned the Rotherham Hospital project, as over 500 people use the entrance every hour. We created our designs with the intention of providing a gateway to the hospital which addresses the scale of the existing building and the services it offers, whilst offering more services for patients and visitors, and making it easier for them to find what they are looking for.
“The new entrance is in complete contrast to the previous design, which was unsuitable for modern use. The space now feels open and welcoming, whereas prior to the improvements it felt very cold and clinical.”
Retail units within the entrance have been remodelled, and the patient street widened to facilitate easier access to the services. Signage has been improved and additionaltoilet provision and a baby feeding facility have been incorporated. External seating and improved drop-off areas have been built, covered by modern canopies. A new pedestrian crossing improves safe access from visitor car parks, enhancing the patient experience.
The redevelopment of Rotherham Hospital’s main entrance is one of the first of the new wave of hospital work commissioned by the NHS, and is part of The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust’s ‘Healthcare of Tomorrow’ programme, which focuseson transforming and upgrading services and facilities across the hospital. Race Cottam designed the new entrance to provide better, safer and easier access to the hospital and its services, for patients and visitors.
Matthew Lowry, The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust’s Chief of Hospital, said: “The new entrance creates a welcoming gateway to services, transforming the experience for patients and visitors. Coming into a hospital environment can be daunting and these new facilities will hopefully improve the whole experience, making it easier for the patients to get around, find what they want and get the help they need.”
Picture Caption: Rotherham Hospital’s brand new, double-height main entrance, designed by Sheffield-based Architects Race Cottam Associates, has been completed.
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