The final design of this new Cancer Centre has yet to be completed as part of the ‘design & build’ process. However, the concepts of land use, shape, overall size, facilities to be included, have been well established and are providing very positive foundations.

Some of the design factors that have a tangible effect on healing:

Use of natural light to give bright, spacious interiors ensuring patients, visitors and staff are not in environments dependant on artificial light
Remove sources of noise (including ventilation, plumbing etc) and use sound absorbing surfaces.

Single rooms give the patient better control over their environment, leading to reported better experience of care and communication with staff.

Appropriate art and nature, greenery, and views have a positive impact.

Art is an integral part of the RUH, giving patients and all those visiting and working at the hospital interesting pictures, photographs, sculptures and artefacts to enjoy. Art works will be incorporated into the design of the new Cancer Centre, some permanent, others transient and interchangeable.

Art can be uplifting and complement the care of patients, enhancing the built environment.

Gardens encourage exercise where appropriate and can reduce stress for patients and families. Landscaping these garden areas will also soften the clinical surroundings, whilst promoting biodiversity.

The building will be designed around the patient journey, from the front door through to the exit to the car park.

On arrival, the patient will have easy access to the reception area directly from the car park and immediately enter a welcoming environment.
There will be a choice of waiting settings including cafes, open seating areas, and quiet, private areas. This will be enabled by pagers as well as personal calls for appointments. There will be specific provision made for teenagers and young adults within the overall spaces.
Wherever possible, patients will have control over their environment (including choice of IV delivery location, control of temperature, lighting and noise level).

In times of personal crisis the building will support patients, for example in not having to leave difficult consultations and walk directly through busy areas of the building.

Inpatient rooms will be predominantly single occupancy and provide space for family and carers

It will be possible for relatives and carers to stay overnight with their loved ones where appropriate, while having access to some domestic facilities and refreshments.