Sydney, NS
1998
18,000 sq. ft.
Client: Cape Breton Healthcare Complex
Type: Institutional, Addition & Renovation

Awards & Recognition: Nova Scotia Association of Architects / Lieutenant Governor's Award for Architecture - Award of Merit (1999)


The Cape Breton Cancer Treatment Centre is a fine example of our objective in healthcare design. This addition of a new Radiation Therapy service to the existing Medical Oncology service fulfils the comfort needs of patients, staff and visitors. The design incorporates ease of orientation, dignity, privacy and variety. To apply our objective in this project we employed design features like a curved path throughout the hospit al, resulting in a more relaxed journey through the clinic.

Our design offers positive distractions for patients undergoing treatment. Characteristics like embossed images on ceiling tiles and a General Waiting Area separated by a window to a Child Play Area divert the attention of patients from the aspects of clinical environments that can cause anxiety.

The unique shape of the addition gives the building it's own identity. It's dedicated entrance enhances patient privacy and minimizes travel distances within the joined facilities. There is a clear distinction between public and private corridors, allowing patients and visitors to move independently, enhancing their sense of control.

A cancer patients' psychological attitude can have an impact on their healing process. We have taken advantage of natural lighting throughout the entire clinic without compromising patient privacy to lessen anxiety and stress levels caused by intense artificial lighting. Wherever artificial lighting has been necessary, indirect lighting softens the environment and alleviates glare. An area has been provided for a projected "healing garden" in which patients could relax during long hours of Chemotherapy.

interior details (click to enlarge)