Craftspace

The project began with a creative consultation process involving artists Tess Hills and Jony Easterby who worked over two days with patients. They involved patients in expressing their views about the current environment as well as making suggestions for changes. The document that resulted was used to inform the development of a design brief.

Young design duo Lucy Nunn and Tobie Snowdowne of Two Create were appointed to work on the next phase of the project. They have a  multidisciplinary approach and design in 2D (graphics) as well as 3D (products). They have produced product concepts for Moet & Chandon, furniture for MDF Italia, packaging for Givenchy and lighting and accessories for Habitat and Mathmos.

Their brief has been to design and manufacture bespoke furniture and lighting for three areas including a sanctuary, lounge/kitchen and study. They have consulted the young patients at each stage of the project using interactive exercises, a message board, drawings, visuals and models.

The initial idea for the redesign came when I was approached by the family of a patient, Lee Thorp. They had raised over 30 thousand pounds in his memory with a variety of sporting events, and wanted to create somewhere for the patients to escape the bustle of the ward. Working with the design team ideas grew and grew, enabling us to create a unique environment, bringing the outdoors in with the nature themed recreational rooms. Our patients and their loved ones spend lengthy periods of time in hospital so the environment it crucial in maintaining a sense of wellbeing, a positive outlook has a real impact on how people cope with their diagnosis and treatment. We are delighted with the results!

Nicky Pettitt, Ward Sister, YPU, Cancer Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital

The aim is to improve the three communal rooms by considering how they are used, moving away from the clinical environment of the ward to create more inspirational, interactive, multisensory and contemporary spaces.

They have worked in collaboration with a design team including nursing staff and an architect. The themes and concepts they have developed for furniture and lighting reflect the patients’ desire to bring a feeling of nature and tranquillity into the spaces.

“Our brief was to create three contemporary styled rooms with bespoke design furnishings that provide unique environments for the teenage patients to relax, socialise and study while receiving treatment.

“Consultation with patients had shown that what they missed the most while on the ward was being outdoors. There is no outside space linked to the ward, while flowers and plants are also not permitted. For these reasons we have referenced nature throughout our designs to provide a haven from the wards.”

Lucy Nunn, Director, Two Create

Artists

Two Create