The redevelopment of the King Edward Memorial Hospital NICU increases the capacity from 80 to 100 cots to satisfy current and future demand, reduce overcrowding, improve patient confidentiality and comfort, and improve working conditions.
The new Neonatal Care Unit is located on level 3 and the Maternal Foetal Assessment Unit in level 4, on the west side of the existing 1980s brick building which has been extended out over the existing loading area below.

Supported on circular columns, this extrusion is captured and contained by a floating alucobond sheet punctuated by colourful openings which introduces a new architectural vocabulary to celebrate the essential purpose of both units. The lightweight fabric recognises the structural necessities of being 3 stories above the ground.

It provides a “capsule” to accommodate the required expansion to both the NICU and MFAU, with solar control shading to a glazed north and south elevation, and minimal glazing to the western elevation.