Building aspirations… building ambitions?

Abstract

Much has been written of late on the requirements of a patient-centred hospital environment suitable for healing. So much so that, within healthcare, the theoretical concept is referred to as ‘evidence-based design’, in which – through form and function – the positive interaction and outcomes that buildings and their environments can have on the health, recovery, safety and wellbeing of patients and carers – and on the health and morale of its staff – is considered. In view of Birmingham’s new £50 million Dental Hospital and School of Dentistry opening its doors to the public earlier this year, this article provides a précis of the establishment, and illustrates how evidence-based healthcare design concepts have been woven into its design.