When designing for health and wellness, a holistic approach to materials and processes is integral to the success of a project
April 18th, 2013
Happiness and good health go hand-in-hand. Additionally, good architecture and design has the ability to create environments that are enjoyable and agreeable to spend time in. Nowhere is this more important than in the design of spaces that support cancer patient treatment and recovery.
The recently completed Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre in Heidelberg, Victoria, takes this reasoning to its logical conclusion in the most innovative and unique way. The Centre is a dedicated healthcare precinct providing a range of specialist cancer services, including cancer treatment, education, training and research to the community.
The building was designed by Jackson Architecture + McConnell Smith Johnson for Austin Health, and was built to maximize energy efficiency outputs and to minimize environmental impacts. The result is something truly remarkable in both design and function, its purpose even more inspiring.
In such a place of healing, every little bit counts. And this is where Stormtech used its unique expertise and knowledge to create a fixture that is every bit as important to the creation of this building as it is to its purpose. Central to the design of this Wellness Centre is the continual access, and visual connection to the central courtyard that is gently wrapped around and nurtured by the building facade. Custom fabricated to fit this innovative structure, Stormtech was called upon to fit all drainage systems for the courtyard, including its water features and balconies. The 72mm wide and 20mm deep troughs and wedgewire grates made from 316 marine grade stainless steel were manufactured to follow the buildings curves, including straight and curved sections.
The courtyard’s design was indented to promote wellness through restorative offerings of light, air, distraction and sustainability, connecting therapeutic and treatment environments with nature. This is why finding a company that could ensure the future success and functionality of the courtyard was crucial. Stormtech was the obvious answer.
Good design is not only essential to good living, it is paramount to the wellbeing of the mind, spirit and body. The designers of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre realized this potential, understanding that even the smallest of wheels must turn in order for the result to be achieved. Stormtech has ensured that these will always keep on turning.
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