The design’s south facing orientation was dictated by the requirement to allow sunlight to penetrate the garden, and into the building, over the woodland screen throughout the year. The placement of the garden then dictates the positioning of the adjacent rooms such as day areas, lounges, and a quiet room.

Interior décor and furnishings are important, to create a character that offers a feeling of belonging and personalisation, achieving a feel that is removed from the overtly clinical, whilst still ticking the compliance criteria. This was achieved through close liaison between service users, staff and the design team.