Kaurna
South Australia
The Modbury Hospital Upgrade (MHU) project has transformed healthcare services in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, surpassing the state’s objectives for quality, cost-effectiveness, and consistency. Beginning with a focus on the 1970s tower’s facade, the project evolved to include modern facilities including a short-stay unit, outpatient department, and Palliative Care Unit, all designed with contemporary care models and integration with nature in mind. Notably, the seamless integration of new structures with existing ones, inspired by the original brutalist architecture, underscores the project’s attention to detail. Optimizing space and circulation, alongside revitalizing the hospital’s entry, enhances accessibility and visitor experience. Collaboration was key to the project’s success, maximizing benefits and sustainability. The tangible impact extends to the community, with upgraded facilities improving patient experiences through private ensuites and modern care approaches. Overall, the MHU project exemplifies visionary, collaborative, and innovative healthcare design, ensuring enduring benefits for the community’s well-being.
The project’s design has significantly enhanced the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network community and the staff at Modbury Hospital by intelligently repurposing existing space while judiciously incorporating new construction. By integrating with the existing building infrastructure, the project has surpassed its initial requirements, delivering a modern model of care and introducing new clinical services to the community.
The transition between the old and new building components has facilitated smooth operational flow, seamlessly connecting refurbished sections. Additionally, the new entrance has revitalized Modbury Hospital’s identity, updating the visitor experience upon arrival and improving the overall experience for both patients and staff.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
