Peace Children's Centre

West Herts Community Health NHS Trust achieved their dream of a new Peace Children’s Centre when it was constructed by Terrapin at the South-Eastern end of the Peace Memorial Hospital site. The concept for the centre began some 18 years previously, taking that long to develop the idea, raise the finance, and approve the budget, plans, design and location.

Terrapin’s involvement began when we submitted specifications and budgetary proposals along with other entrants in a competition for the design of the new Peace Childrenís Centre. John Lewis Associates (Architects) of Dorking won by an overwhelming majority, and the contract was awarded to Terrapin due to their ability to interpret their design using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) while keeping within the budget of £1.65 million. West Herts Community Health NHS Trust, were also impressed by healthcare facilities created by Terrapin for Aylesbury Vale NHS Trust and a £3 million, three storey ward block for Kingston NHS Trust.

The building is designed around three basic forms; circles, rectangles and squares, interposed in a powerful union enhanced by the dynamic, glazed cantilevered ‘prow’. The sweeping arc roof joins the vaulted main roof, which is in turn intersected by the glazed, circular tower. It features extensive curtain walling and complementary glazing to provide a light, airy and unusual structure. The building is three storeys high and includes various treatment and consultant rooms, dental suites, meeting and administration areas, together with associated medical facilities, waiting and play areas, offices and stores. The overall floor area is 1,633 sq m.

The centre is now a vital part of local children’ s health care as it brings together services located across the Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere areas. For the first time, children have access to professionals such as paediatricians, speech therapists, psychologists, social services and pre-school advisory teachers in one purpose-designed facility.

Peace Children's Centre

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