Client
HDR Architects
(on behalf of Multiplex on behalf of NSW Health Infrastructure)
Overview
Community and CultureHealth
Collaborators
HDR Architects
Multiplex
Fresh Landscapes
MOS Urban
Tilt Industrial Design
Andreasens Green
Pricewaterhouse Cooper
Disciplines
Landscape Architecture
Location
Westmead, NSW
Date
2021
Imagery
Brett Broadman Photography
Steve Brown Photography
Awards
2021 AILA Award of Excellence — Health + Education Landscape (NSW)
The role of greenery and nature in promoting health and wellbeing is epitomised by this award-winning hospital oasis.
The Westmead Health Precinct’s Central Acute Services Building (CASB) is a major redevelopment, which has transformed Westmead Hospital and created much-needed, publicly accessible green space.
From master planning through to construction, Tract provided expertise, advocating for a cohesive and high-quality public domain within the hospital precinct – for the benefit of all users.
Biophilic design principles were integrated throughout the dynamic and complex landscape to create a multilevel garden in this urban hospital environment. Green spaces with generous vegetation and canopy provide a variety of external experiences, and form a sanctuary for rest, reflection and relaxation.
The extensive public domain design responded to strict state development requirements imposed across the site (including dealing with on-structure and podium designs), and mediated a complex matrix of built-form over various levels, critical underground services and remediated earthworks.
The redevelopment also set out to create culturally welcoming, safe and connected spaces to support Aboriginal communities when accessing healthcare and employment at Westmead.
Across the campus, artworks celebrate Aboriginal history, language, science and knowledge. Outside, these are gently and confidently embedded into the public domain to discover and admire, adding richness to the experience, both physically and spiritually. Cultural Gathering Place on level one provides a setting for Mudinga, Sound of Water, All That Remains and Tools of Knowledge. Memory Vessel, Gumadagu Gurang welcome people at the Arrival Plaza on level two.
Today the multi-layered garden oasis is the antithesis of a sterile health centre, instead serving as a calm and nurturing retreat for staff, patients and visitors alike.
