Altnagelvin Restaurant Extension

The new Restaurant at Altnagelvin Hospital form part of a wider framework of works for the Western Health and Social Care Trust. The new facility replaces the existing, outdated Hospital Restaurant and is located at the heart of the Hospital campus.

The project involved the refurbishment of the ground floor of the existing ward wing of the 1960s Tower Block to form the Restaurant, with the insertion of new build elements into existing courtyards to form the catering kitchen and WC blocks.

Additional works will also be undertaken at first floor to accommodate offices and a cold preparation area, with multi-faith facilities to also be provided at this level. A new two storey link is proposed as part of the overall works to assist with congestion at the main lift cores.

The approach to the aesthetic was for a contemporary, welcoming, and non-institutional ambience which reflects the Client’s aspirations.

A natural material palette was selected as a means of creating a calming environment whilst also amplifying the natural light brought in along the courtyard glazed zones through the tones chosen in the material palette.

The works were a challenge in terms of phasing and access arrangements due to their location at the heart of the building and the requirement to work within the constraints of a live hospital environment.

TODD Architects worked closely with the Trust and the appointed contractor to ensure the sequencing of works had minimum impact on patients, staff and visitors and the general day to day operations of the Hospital.