Renal and Cardiac Unit, West Wales General Hospital, Carmarthen
The scheme replaces the pre-existing renal dialysis unit on the hospital site which, consisting of a pre-fabricated ‘Portakabin’ was deemed to be unfit for purpose after 12 years of occupation.
The initial brief was to provide a new single storey unit on an existing ‘garden’ area adjacent to an existing ward block on the western boundary of the site. During early feasibility studies it was agreed that a 2 storey unit, providing facilities for cardiac rehabilitation at first floor, would make better use of the available site.
The shape and proportion of the site, the proximity of the adjacent ward block (and the fire separation issues involved) and the western boundary informed the plan shape of the building and its position on the site. Further development of the scheme then led to the curved façade treatment facing the boundary and the stepped section, with a first floor terrace, facing the existing ward block.
The scheme provides a two storey link to the existing ward adjacent in order to allow inpatient bed/trolley transfers. The main entrance to the building faces the main hospital car-park and provides access to a common lobby and lift/stair core.
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