Extension for pioneering energy efficient GP surgery by CIAT Registered Practice

Sheffield CIAT Registered Practice, Ikonografik Design was responsible for the design, cost control and subsequent delivery.

Woodhouse Health Centre was intended as a pioneering, energy efficient building and arguably helped pave the way for the subsequent Passivhaus design methodology. The high levels of insulation and air tight perimeter still exceed the current Building Regulations over 20 years later and energy requirements and running costs of the building are still remarkably low.

The project has added three new consulting rooms, two receptions, waiting area, offices and storage rooms. The new facility can also be separated from the main building, which currently has 21 consulting rooms, allowing the addition of a satellite out-of-hours service. There is also a 100-hour pharmacy on site, which supports the centre’s additional opening hours.

The project was not without challenges, which included a lengthy approval process by all the interested stakeholders, including NHS England. Initial tender estimates also far exceeded the project budget.  A collaborative team effort with a transparent approach meant cost was saved without compromising on the expected levels of quality and compliance and thus ensured the project could be delivered.

The design and numerous drawings were produced from a single 3D model, with 27 design drawings alone required for the bespoke furniture package.

Nathan Oliver MCIAT, Chartered Architectural Technologist and Director at Ikonografik Design, said 'the existing building was relatively famous when first constructed in 1989, as it was a pioneering, super energy efficient building.

It’s not often we get the chance to work on a relatively famous building, even if it’s slightly unknown. We were pleased to be appointed to design a new extension and to re-fit part of the old building, especially as it featured in my dissertation on energy efficiency back in 1997.'

The project has taken more than three years to complete but led to Primary Care Sheffield awarding the centre the out-of-hours contract.

The additional rooms also support the NHS Sheffield CCG Neighbourhoods initiative, which brings health, social care, community and public service experts together to help prevent ill health and reduce unnecessary hospital admissions.

Gordon Osborne, Practice Manager at Woodhouse Health Centre, said 'we are delighted with the construction work, with the new satellite unit providing fantastic facilities for our patients.

The new out-of-hours service will be a huge benefit to those in need of medical assistance outside normal work hours. The extra rooms will also support the neighbourhood community services and save patients travelling to the hospital.'