Selected Project
Allan Bean Centre
Rehabilitation facilities for spinal injury patients traditionally have emphasised physical recovery over the non physical. Hours of time in the physiotherapy gym rebuilds the body but often overlooks stimulating the mind. The desire to create a balance between them and offer greater choice in the rehabilitation process led to the creation of the Allan Bean Centre next to the Burwood Hospital Spinal Unit in 2001. The centre, essentially a library, is a pioneering concept for rehabilitation, one that emphasises the need for contemplation and intellectual stimulus as part of the recovery process. It is a place to sit in peace and read a book or surf the net. It allows people a chance to re evaluate their place in the world, learn how to deal with life after a spinal injury, and consider the future. It deliberately turns away from the clinical environment and looks out towards Christchurch and the Port Hills under a gently rising and levitating roof. Natural materials – concrete and timber –contrast strongly with the world of the hospital. It is a gateway back to the outside world. Within the central space the perforated timber ceiling panels help create a quiet tranquil acoustic environment. The thermomass walls, concrete floor, high levels of insulation and automated ventilation flaps at ceiling level ensure a pleasant even temperature and environment all year round with minimal energy input. To the sides ancillary areas – offices, seminar rooms, toilets and technician rooms – are housed in low solid white blocks contrasting with the higher aspirational form of the central space
- Category
- Community & Cutural
- Location
