We collaborate with many of the best clinicians and researchers, advancing best practice in health planning and design. Read More Expertise Start Now Shoalhaven Hospital Multi-Deck Carpark Acute Health, Masterplanning Start Now The Prince Charles Hospital Acute Health, Masterplanning Start Now Sunshine Coast University Hospital Masterplanning See More Projects › Examples in Practice Architecture As architects specialising in healthcare projects, we have a proven track record in the design of innovative hospitals, mental health units, clinics, and associated research and education facilities. Our aim is to enhance the lives of those who live and work in the buildings we design and that result in positive social, environmental and economic outcomes. We design environments that are protective and therapeutic, integrating art, interior design and landscape to create relaxing and healing spaces. Our designs are structured following carefully considered zoning and human-scaled features to ensure facilities feel welcoming and finding one’s way around is intuitive. Interior designs are developed to balance clinical functions with social purpose creating spaces sensitive to the needs of the diverse range of people who use our buildings. Access to nature has a powerful role in supporting health recovery and our designs incorporate good indoor-outdoor connections, gardens and courtyards as an integral part of the therapeutic environment. ​ Our most successful projects have been built around strong engagement with our clients and stakeholders. We structure our work around a series of intensive workshops to first establish the client vision and ensure that it underpins the whole design process from the earliest sketches through to construction documentation. We differentiate our services through an emphasis on clear accessible diagrams, three dimensional views, and data rich Building Information Models to guide our clients through the process. Masterplanning Masterplanning means designing the foundation for an unknown future. Like game-planning in chess, masterplanning involves designing a strategy to make sure that short-term interests do not interfere with long-term goals and very long term possibilities. A good masterplan makes for good bones for future development. There are three keystones of masterplanning: Flexibility for inevitable change, Expandability for increased numbers and growth, Accessibility for diversity, disability and future health challenges. Within this framework there are three beacons to guide us to make the best choices about the future: Evidence based on past experience, Research into emerging knowledge, Awareness that care needs to be increasingly patient-centred. Our masterplans are guided by three core principles of clinical planning, infrastructure planning and environmental planning. Our best masterplans follow strategies which support all three principles together so that all items of capital investment support improved clinical outcomes, reduce long term infrastructure costs and improve the quality of the environment. ​ MAAP’s respected track record, role in academic and industry research, and experience in designing exemplar patient-centred environments means we are well placed to guide our clients through the masterplanning process and make good masterplanning decisions. Research & Innovation MAAP recognise that the design of the built environment profoundly affects health outcomes. We support the growing demand for person-centred models of care and recovery-centred care for mental health. This has implications for the architecture of health facilities because they are too often still being designed to an old paradigm of clinical service-centred care. We regularly engage in design-led research for clients to provide strategic advice and direction at all stages of health projects. This has helped our clients focus on the big picture, ask the right questions, and identify evidence-based solutions that integrate with policy, design and delivery.​ ​Research and innovation at MAAP is fully integrated into our design process and led by Mungo Smith and Noam Raz drawing on their experience in research, authoring design guidance and advice to government clients in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Design Guidance Design guidance is intended to facilitate the realisation of primary objectives into design and built form. The involvement of practitioners in the formulation of guidance improves the quality of the guidance and outcomes. MAAP’s continuing engagement in researcher-led theory and empirical evidence gathering promises to further improve the quality of the buildings and functions that are founded on design guidance. ​ Design guidelines, generic briefing materials and design standards establish a minimum understanding of an architectural problem. They should be treated as a foundation: an agreed minimum standard based on past models of care and previously successful ideas. Because of the level of abstraction required in generic guidance, guidelines should not necessarily be applied uncritically. They provide a baseline from which designers, clients and stakeholders can collaboratively develop solutions suited to the specifics of the specific site, service users, clinical service and model of care.

Su Balasubramanian ​ Qualifications Associations ​ Selected Work See More ›

MAAP is a global architecture, urban design, and health planning practice. Based in Sydney, we work across Australia and have recently completed projects in the UK, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, Jordan, Pakistan and Qatar. ​ We are knowledge leaders in the design of acute and mental health facilities and have made significant contributions to both foundational research and built projects. ​ Our work has been recognised by some of the most respected healthcare and architectural design institutions. Jacaranda Place Shoalhaven Hospital Multi-Deck Carpark Clock View See Awards › Awards Sector Exclusivity We work exclusively in the health and care sector. Our sector-focused approach helps us achieve excellent design outcomes and our projects regularly receive awards acknowledging our imaginative approach combining theory and practice. 1 2 Experience We have over 30 years of experience masterplanning sites, designing buildings, and evaluating completed projects. We have accumulated a significant knowledge base devoted to all types of healthcare facilities. Research and Innovation We are committed to continually improving outcomes by leading research commissions and applying evidence-based findings to our projects. We frequently collaborate with leading international research partners and regularly undertake studies on the design of health facilities to inform future projects. 3 4 Challenging Orthodoxy We have consistently challenged the accepted orthodoxy of the deep plan hospital typology as an appropriate physical environment for treatment and care. Essentially we believe that hospitals benefit holistically from better environments, meaning better air quality, less noise pollution, more natural light, quality aesthetics, improved views and more domestic and human-scaled environments for patients, staff and visitors. User Engagement We often work with complex client and stakeholder organisations, including multiple agencies and tiers of services. We use a variety of “visioning” and participation tools to understand operational and workforce issues. Our staff have personally spent many hours visiting inpatient units and connecting with the service users and service providers to understand their needs. 5 What makes us MAAP In addition to architecture and urban design, we regularly provide government and private clients with independent peer review, strategic advice and international benchmarking research. Recent clients & partners include: Clients & Partners Johnstaff › ARUP › Jacobs › AECOM › Health Infrastructure NSW › Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand › UnitingCare › Victorian Health Building Authority › See All › Digital Design Our projects benefit from advanced Building Information Model (BIM) workflows. We use industry-standard modelling and database software to design and document highly detailed health planning and building information. Some benefits include improved collaboration with stakeholders, consultants and contractors; enhanced visualisation of 3D models; accurate documentation; “fit first time” support for off-site fabrication; and exceptional information quality at handover. We are specialist architects, urban designers, and health planners. Read More Research by Design MAAP was originally established in the UK in 1991 out of the Live Projects Section of the Medical Architecture Research Unit (MARU) at London South Bank University. MARU has a strong reputation integrating design, education and research into its course on Health Facility Planning which has attracted post-graduate students from all over the world. We have been building innovative, research-led projects for more than 30 years and offer masterplanning, architecture and health planning services worldwide. Get in touch to explore how we can work together. Contact Us Get in Touch › Sustainability Low carbon impact design is an integral feature of our approach. Projects are interwoven with sustainable design principles such as the provision of natural light and ventilation; selection of building typologies that create protective microclimates; selection of sustainable materials; integration of landscape for mitigation of heat island effects and pollution; and water-sensitive urban design.

2019 Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand n/a Mental Health Multi-Storey Mental Health Facilities 2017 CPG Consultants | MOH Holdings | Singapore Ministry of Health not disclosed Mental Health, Aged Care, Masterplanning Ang Mo Kio Nursing Home 2014 Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust £1.7m Mental Health Oakwood, Adult Autism Care Unit 2014 Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust £0.65m Acute Health Dementia Friendly Environments, Guy’s and St Thomas’ 2014 Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £50m Mental Health Hopewood Park 2014 Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust £21.5m Acute Health Queen Elizabeth Emergency Care Centre 2013 University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust £0.25m Acute Health The Heart Hospital Reconfiguration 2013 Technology Strategy Board | Oxford Brookes University n/a Mental Health, Research & Guidance Design for Future Health TIME Project: Edge Lane Hospital 2013 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £8m Mental Health Tyne, Low Secure Unit 2012 Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust £10m Mental Health Northgate Centre and Amsgill Unit 2011 Northern Ireland Health Estates £2.5m Community Health Carrickore Children’s Home 2011 South West London & St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust Not disclosed Mental Health Springfield Hospital Masterplan 2011 Acciona Infrastructures £443m Acute Health New Oakville Hospital 2009 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £6.1m Mental Health Rose Lodge Assessment and Treatment Unit 2009 NHS Estates | Department of Health n/a Research & Guidance Health Building Notes - HBN 04 (2nd Ed) – Acute Inpatient Accommodation 2009 Laing O’Rourke / Buckinghamshire Hospitals NHS Trust £6.5m Acute Health Claydon Wing, Stoke Mandeville Hospital 2009 Laing O’Rourke / Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £0.4m Mental Health Dene Ward, Cherry Knowle Hospital 2009 Integrated Health Projects / South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust £23m Mental Health Wandsworth Recovery Centre 2009 Laing O’Rourke / Buckinghamshire Hospitals NHS Trust £12.6m Acute Health Mandeville Wing, Stoke Mandeville Hospital 2008 Hillingdon Hospital NHS Trust £2.6m Acute Health, Research & Guidance Bevan Ward - Single Bedroom Pilot Project 2008 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £4.5m Mental Health Northgate Hospital Villas 2008 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £8m Mental Health Greentrees Unit, St Nicholas Hospital 2007 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £1.1m Mental Health Bede Wing, South Tyneside Hospital 2007 Consort / Balfour Beatty £20m Community Health Blackpool Primary Care Centre 2006 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust £15.5m Mental Health Bamburgh Clinic 2006 Mersey Care NHS Trust £12.5m Mental Health Rathbone Hospital Low Secure Unit 2005 Metropolitan Housing Trust / South London and Maudsley NHS Trust £2.2m Mental Health De Crespigny Park 1999 Drs. Graham, Seyan and Partners £0.2m Community Health Simpson House Medical Centre 1997 NHS Estates | Department of Health n/a Research & Guidance Health Building Notes - HBN 35 Part 3 – Accommodation for People with Mental Illness 1995 West Herts Community Health NHS Trust £4m Community Health West Herts Community Treatment Units 1994 NHS Birmingham East and North £1.8m Community Health Small Heath Health Centre 1992 NHS Estates | Department of Health n/a Research & Guidance Health Building Notes - HBN 27 – Intensive Therapy Unit 1991 Dr Hill & Partners £0.5m Community Health The Riverside Primary Care Surgery ​ ​ ​ Community Health, Mental Health Alexandria Health Centre Project Year Value Sector Client Learn More › Our award-winning approach is grounded in a long history of research and innovation. We work closely with our clients to provide specialist research, strategic advice, and unique solutions in response to complex design challenges and demanding delivery frameworks. Research & Knowledge We have built and masterplanned billions of dollars of health infrastructure over the past 30 years. Read More Archive

MAAP is a uniquely specialised and agile studio with expertise in delivering large, complex projects. Read More Practice Architecture can have a profound influence in enhancing our lives, health, and sense of well-being. Our design approach places an emphasis on accessibility and flexibility, creating spaces that foster well-being and are inclusive to all. Through inventive solutions and thoughtful design, we aim to shape spaces that enrich the human experience, and inspire positive change for individuals, communities, and society, for social good We believe that collaboration and good communication are essential to creating spaces that meet the needs of our clients and project stakeholders. Our studio fosters an inclusive, participatory design approach, promoting meaningful dialogue to understand each project's vision, aspirations, opportunities and challenges. This open exchange of ideas ensures that every healthcare facility is tailored to uniquely reflects our clients' values and objectives. through open conversations Immense benefit can be realised by incorporating natural elements into spaces for health and well-being. By harnessing natural light, fresh air, planting, and views to nature, we create environments that are calming, soothing, and conducive to mental and physical healing and recovery. Our sustainable design approach goes beyond aesthetics, promoting reduced energy demand, on-site renewables, and responsible material selection to minimise carbon footprints. By harmonising with nature, we optimise the well-being of patients, staff, and visitors, while mitigating the impact of our projects on the environment. in concert with nature We design We're always on the lookout for talented people at any stage of their career. Whether you’re an established architect or planner looking for a compelling design challenge, or a recent graduate taking your first steps in the industry, we can provide you with the opportunity to make your mark and build a distinguished and fulfilling career. Join the Team Opportunities are advertised on this website or on LinkedIn when available, but we're always interested in talking to talented people. Send us a one page CV and portfolio to start the conversation. Get in Touch ›

Location ​ Client Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust Role ​ Year 2012 Value £10m Contact ​ ​ Northgate Centre and Amsgill Unit ​ ​ ​ Jacaranda Place ​ Clock View ​ Glenside Health Campus ​ See All › Related Projects ​

10 February 2021 SPICU at Thomas Embling Hostital wins at European Healthcare Design Awards MAAP's Secure Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit at Thomas Embling Hospital has been awarded Best Mental Health Project in the International category at the European Healthcare Design Awards in 2020. The SPICU was designed to meet the episodic needs of high risk mentally ill patients transferred from prison with secure humane containment and facilities for therapeutic engagement, potentially separate to other patients. The facility provides residential accommodation for the stabilisation of patients alongside carefully planned day spaces, de-escalation, seclusion and treatment rooms, and secure patient courtyards near staff offices and support spaces. The team were involved in developing the model of care and functional brief through an intensive user engagement process. The unit is located to engage with long views beyond the secure campus boundary and provides access to gardens. Alexandria Health Centre wins WAFX Award for Ageing and Health Mental Health Alexandria Health Centre shortlisted at World Architecture Festival Awards Mental Health Clock View Hospital recognised for enduring value Mental Health See All › Related Knowledge

Location Frenchs Forest NSW, Australia Client Health Infrastructure NSW | Johnstaff Projects Role Architect, Masterplanner Year 2012 Value $460m Contact Mungo Smith The populations of the local government areas of Manly, Pittwater and Warringah are projected to grow steeply resulting in an increased demand on existing ageing health facilities and services. Health Infrastructure New South Wales approached MAAP to undertake a feasibility study involving the medical planning and phasing for the new Northern Beaches Hospital which was subsequently developed through a competitive PPP processes delivering both public and private hospital infrastructure. Northern Beaches Hospital ​ ​ ​ Shoalhaven Hospital Multi-Deck Carpark ​ The Prince Charles Hospital ​ Glenside Health Campus ​ See All › Related Projects The site for the Hospital is positioned off two main arterial roads within a larger re-development area. In order to fully integrate the proposed hospital into the existing and proposed urban environment, MAAP first produced a strategic masterplan that sets the infrastructure and structure for any future development. Our proposal focused on creating a number of important public centres, the new hospital, commercial, educational and residential zones linked by a new landscaped and servicing spine. Due to site constraints and variation in ground levels this spine is proposed elevated, enabling car parking to be slotted underneath with buildings to be either built on top or around the perimeter. The strategic masterplan was developed as a reference design which has informed NSW Health's requirements for the PPP.

Location Redcliffe QLD, Australia Client Metro North Hospital & Health Service | Johnstaff Projects Role Masterplanner, Consulting Architect Year 2019 Value $400m Contact Mungo Smith MAAP has worked alongside Johnstaff, Hames Sharley; Arup and Rider Levett Bucknall on the masterplan and concept design for Metro North Health's Redcliffe Hospital Redevelopment preliminary business case which was completed in early 2019. Redcliffe Hospital Redevelopment ​ ​ ​ Shoalhaven Hospital Multi-Deck Carpark ​ The Prince Charles Hospital ​ Glenside Health Campus ​ See All › Related Projects The masterplan addresses the full projected requirements for the hospital over the next decade and informs a range of short list scope options and a preferred scope of development. It is anticipated that the capital cost of the preferred option will be in the order of $400 million end cost. The masterplan acknowledges that a flexible approach is required to allow Metro North Health to consider the opportunities and costs of a range of scope and redevelopment options as the project progresses beyond the PBC gateway.

Location Birtinya QLD, Australia Client Queensland Health Role Masterplanner, Consulting Architect Year 2012 Value $1.5b Contact Mungo Smith MAAP worked alongside Deicke Richards Architects and Conrad Gargett Architects to develop a master plan for the Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH) which encompasses a 450 overnight bed public tertiary level teaching hospital, with future expansion to 950 overnight beds. It provides a full range of ambulatory and acute services supported by a central energy plant, car park and an academic and research centre. Sunshine Coast University Hospital ​ ​ ​ Shoalhaven Hospital Multi-Deck Carpark ​ The Prince Charles Hospital ​ Glenside Health Campus ​ See All › Related Projects Patient care and place making is integral to the SCUH vision. The objective of the master plan was to promote good design, flexibility and accessibility using the underlying architectural structure and organisation of space to support versatile healing environments. MAAP led high level strategy and client/team liaison, masterplanning and concept stage clinical planning, the application of evidence based design and international perspectives on healthcare facilities, and user consultation ahead of PPP procurement. One of the key challenges for this project has been to accommodate the project’s varied facilities in a staged development. Our solution allocated space across a flexible open-ended structure that not only responds to the constraints of the site but will also allow for growth and change over the lifetime of the facility. The accommodation is broken down into modules or pods that can be combined or separated in flexible formations that will meet the needs of each generation of users.

Location Middlesbrough, UK Client Laing O’Rourke | Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust Role Architect, Masterplanner, Interior Design Year 2010 Value £75m Contact Mungo Smith Roseberry Park is a 312-bed inpatient mental health complex providing Adult, Older Adult and Forensic (including Learning Disabilities) Mental Health Services. A sensitive interpretation of the Trust’s brief and aspirations reflected the requirements of a modern adult mental health service and workforce. Roseberry Park We were particularly impressed by the way the architects had manipulated the design to reduce its significant bulk into recognisably human scaled spaces. The integration of the landscape into the design is particularly well handled. RIBA Northern Network Awards Panel ​ Jacaranda Place ​ Clock View ​ Glenside Health Campus ​ See All › Related Projects The complex is set within a landscape structure which supports both underlying roles of the institution: therapeutic care and security. The therapeutic benefits of contact with nature are fully utilised with buildings and wards intimately entwined around a series of gardens and courtyards where each patient has close, generous and free access to the outdoors. Separate zones for Adult and Forensic services were achieved through a series of individual units providing services for specific groups of users that share a main entrance and a number of support facilities. Single loaded corridors around courtyards allowed for ‘swing beds’ to be allocated to different units to reflect gender/capacity requirements. Awards 2012 RIBA Award RIBA 2012 Client of the Year RIBA 2011 Gold Award RIBA Northern Network Awards 2011 Hadrian Award (North East Project of the Year) RIBA Northern Network Awards 2010 International Mental Health - Highly Commended Design and Health Awards

Location ​ Client Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust Role ​ Year 2006 Value £15.5m Contact ​ ​ Bamburgh Clinic ​ ​ ​ Jacaranda Place ​ Clock View ​ Glenside Health Campus ​ See All › Related Projects ​