CASE STUDY // Caring

Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Unit

Forster Green, Glencregagh Road, Belfast

Project

Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Unit

Location

Forster Green, Glencregagh Road, Belfast

Client

SEHSCT

Contractor / Lead Consultant

Farrans | McAdam Design

Sectors

Caring

SCOPE

The Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Unit is a purpose-built facility that combines adolescent services, a child and family centre and a learning centre in a single location.

 

Key features:
  • the elevated site has stands of protected mature trees, and we worked with arboriculturists and the government Landscape Service to formulate an appropriate strategy
  • mass shrub/woodland planting on the boundaries of the site provides a unifying structural framework to the landscape and buildings
  • formal tree planting accentuates the more formal and structured parts of the development and gives vertical expression to the converging lines of the circulation routes
  • ornamental planting is used at focal points to emphasise a destination, or within courtyards etc for enhanced amenity value
  • outdoor spaces were designed to relate intimately to the indoor spaces, e.g., areas for picnics and barbecues outside dining rooms; play terraces related directly to the indoor recreation area and formal outdoor children’s play area
  • in all areas, detailed design maximised opportunities for sensory stimulation. A vegetable garden and greenhouse were provided
  • the intensive care wing has its own secure outdoor space, which was carefully designed to avoid opportunities for self-harm
  • similarly, care was applied to all outdoor spaces – including planting – to avoid undue risk
  • the central courtyard was designed in collaboration with an artist as a setting for several pieces of sculpture

OUTCOME

We’re proud to have been part of this complex, ambitious and important project, helping to create a safe, restful and pleasant environment for vulnerable young people, their families and visitors, as well as staff. It provides year-round interest and sensory stimulation, and combines an exceptional variety of functions and spaces.

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS PROJECT?

Like to talk to us about your next project? Get in touch:

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Newtownards, BT23 6SB
Northern Ireland

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