As an enlightened client the Trust were seeking to provide enhanced therapeutic patient facilities at the Lakeside Unit, on an already constrained West Middlesex University Hospital site.

The project incorporated the conversion of an under-utilised OT gymnasium and adjoining service rooms to form a small but vibrant cafétéria for use by patients within the Unit, forming a small but integral part of the therapy programme. Within the immediately adjacent internal courtyard, and inextricably linked to the cafétéria, a small infill extension has created an internet café that also incorporates casual seating areas.

Designed to provide a safe, relaxing and therapeutic patient environment the building makes best use of the limited space available. The contemporary design of the extension allows natural daylight to penetrate deeply into the internet café, with angular directional rooflights that provide an interesting sculptural relief to the roofscape.

Externally, natural timber finishes and pre-finished metalwork provides a contemporary feel, and for a reduced maintenance regime – particularly important due to the restrictions on service access.

• Café/Internet Café provided for patients
• 180 sqm refurbishment/new build
• Courtyard provided