The Florence Institute

Mill Street Toxteth Liverpool L8 8DX United Kingdom

Located on Mill Street in Toxteth, Liverpool, this historic but neglected building stands as a memorial of the work of Sir Bernard Hall a former Mayer of Liverpool and local business man. He originally built it in memory of his daughter who tragically died at a young age. It was designed as a place of recreation and soon became an institute for boys. It served the young working and unemployed in the area.

Conceptual Ideas
As the spiral opens it will embrace and appreciate the space, however the spirals can close in to create privacy and enclosure which is required for a GP practice. My design will be influenced by the concept of free flowing ribbon design and unravelling spirals. These effects will enable the space to flow without any limits. This concept will create a sense of calm and tranquillity which is needed for the space. Claire McManus - Portfolio

Ground Floor
The ground floor has purposely been designed as an open plan space that incorporates bringing the outside nature in to the building to create a sense of wellness and appreciation of our environment. The layouts of the floors are clear and functional. With the core being the entrance/ground floor, routes are easy and logical with the GP and staff rooms kept to one side. I aimed to keep my design as open plan as possible but as a key requirement to a Health Centre, it was important to maintain comfortable and private spaces.

A caf is located on the ground floor that opens outside to enable an inviting welcoming open space. Circular seating in the waiting area will create a sense of community among the patients.

Claire McManus Portfolio

First Floor

A welcoming and comfortable atmosphere has been creatively designed to provide healthcare with a difference and a refuge for the local community to ease stress and enhance positive health. The first floor contains three mini operational rooms, a seating/meeting area and a storage room for GP/Nurses equipment. The use of an overhanging balcony across the ground floor enhances the open plan space and adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

The Walnut flooring is accompanied by calming colours such as apple green that compliments the surrounding nature pictures.

Claire McManus - Portfolio

Exploded 3D Floor

A welcoming and comfortable atmosphere has been creatively designed to provide healthcare with a difference and a refuge for the local community to ease stress and enhance positive health. Claire McManus Portfolio

Claire McManus - Portfolio

Exterior Views
This unique curvy exterior contradicts all the characteristics that a typical medical centre has. Its modern appearance creates interest and encourages viewers to look beyond.

Claire McManus - Portfolio