In this instance the design response to the issues identified was to create a secure building lit from within a courtyard. The courtyard device was also used to separate the conflicting needs of differing users into two separable but linked wings sharing only a common Foyer.

Universal accessibility was of great importance and the building has been so designed as to be fully accessible to the disabled.

Materials chosen are durable, low maintenance and pleasing to the eye.

External walls surfaces are of brick, while the roofing is of insulated steel sandwich panels set out of reach to avoid vandalism, internal finishes are of the highest standard affordable, and the general impression internally is one of order and calmness. Internally fittings, fixtures and decorative finishes have been designed to minimise the potential for loss or damage through vandalism.

Environmentally, materials are, where possible: permeable and breathable and are from renewable resources. The roofing panels are finished with a ‘Green’ sedum membrane layer to absorb rainwater run-off and attenuation minimises injurious impact upon existing overburdened drainage networks. Heating is via Pumps core drilled into the surrounding ground and significantly reducing energy costs.

Cost in Use principles are applied to the selection of materials and products to minimise wastage and future expense.

The result is a thriving and valuable addition to the neighbourhood which is popular with users and management.