We were appointed as architects for a new healthcare building on the site of the former Surbiton Community Hospital. The sensitive site within the Oakhill Conservation Area was surrounded by residential ‘Buildings of Townscape Merit’ and included multiple trees with Tree Preservation Orders. Therefore, our design needed to be sensitive to the surrounding area while providing suitable amenities to the community.
During design development, we were further instructed to design a new primary school on the same site. Both key public buildings required a high level of energy efficiency.
The site layout plan needed to respond to the sensitive planning circumstances. To achieve planning within 13 weeks, we engaged with the planning authority early on and carried out extensive public engagement. Our scheme respected neighbouring amenities and achieved minimal tree loss while also allowing lots of natural light and ventilation throughout the building.
"A challenging urban site expertly handled by Roberts Limbrick with an efficient and imaginative design."
The design brings together four GP practices on the ground floor with a shared reception, waiting areas, and a pharmacy arranged around a peaceful, landscaped courtyard. First floor facilities include an urgent care centre, diagnostic facilities, consulting rooms, a dental suite and other amenities.
To maximise energy efficiency, we used a combined heat and power (CHP) plant that delivered hot water and underfloor heating to both the health centre and school. Photovoltaic panels were installed on the roof to generate electricity. The project achieved BREEAM ‘Excellent’.
