Sustainable modular hospital regeneration

Inserting modular structures
Section of container in existing structure
Steel reinforcement around shipping container

Inspiration

The NHS saves hundreds of thousands of lives daily, protecting it's employees and patients is vital. The infrastructure of the hospitals are failing, with RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated concrete) a material that is deteriorating, found in almost 54 NHS hospitals, a solution was needed.

What it does

The modular system lets the hospital be rebuilt section by section, as repurposed shipping containers are transformed into healthcare certified rooms. These are then stacked into the pre-existing building, which is reinforced through spray concrete and steel beams, part-by-part, allowing for the hospital to still function.

How we built it

The shipping containers are insulated with environmentally sustainable materials and equipped with the necessary medical equipment suited to that department or ward. The containers are of suitable size to fit the health standard and will be fully function as expected.

Challenges we ran into

Pre-existing buildings have their layout already determined, therefore, our containers need to be able to fitted in considering this layout whilst ensuring they are of reasonable size to be functionable. Retrofitting these containers will always be a challenge.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Combining our ideas of modular systems that can be used in a variety of settings with the problems of failing hospital infrastructure, is what we are most proud of. As this sustainable solution will benefit communities by continuing the hospitals ability to provide healthcare, protecting it's patients and staff as well as ensuring all people still receive access to necessary support and care. These modular systems could also be utilised to provide shelter for homeless people, or necessary housing solutions.

What we learned

We have learnt of the aspects needed to be considered when changing hospitals and healthcare solutions, as there are multiple regulations and requirements that need to be considered. We have also learnt that feasibility of changing last scale buildings requires lots of measures to be put into place and safety concerns to be evaluated.

What's next for Sustainable modular hospital regeneration

To reuse these modular designs to address other issues such as homelessness, housing shortages and cost of living, by using our designs to provide sustainable homes that are well-made, efficient and will last.