Langdon Learning Disability/Autism Unit – Grainge Architects

Nominee Information

The Langdon Learning Disability/Autism Unit will provide a therapeutic, comforting, uplifting environment for recovery for people with complex sensory needs.

We worked closely with clinicians from the outset to understand how best to meet the specialist requirements of this unique mixed patient cohort. People with autism and/or learning disabilities may have greatly differing environmental needs, so it was critical that the design be flexible enough to cater for each group without detriment to the other.

Robust engagement with Experts by Experience informed every stage of the design process; from advising on spatial zoning and flow for individuals who struggle with wayfinding, to developing interiors that avoid sensory overwhelm while using colour and lighting creatively to create calming and homely spaces. Other key design drivers include:

A home from home: Patient accommodation is provided in the form of 10 ‘flats’, each containing a living/dining space, bedroom, ensuite and garden. This enhanced level of private space reflects a domestic setting and supports those for whom social interaction or excessive stimulation may be overwhelming.

Supporting recovery and transition back into the community: The design aligns with the service model to gently encourage a gradual transition from private space into the communal areas and aid participation in a wide range of therapeutic and vocational activities. Strategically-placed nooks and window seats allow patients to pause/rest, move between spaces at their own pace, and observe what is happening ahead without necessarily entering that space until they are ready to.

Decompressing outdoors: The importance to LD/A patients of being able to go outside in all weathers was a key insight that led us to integrate canopies and sheltered spaces in every courtyard.

Inside/outside: Internal spaces are arranged around a series of generous gardens to create a sense of openness and ensure a view to the outside throughout; the antithesis of the claustrophobic corridors so often found in traditional facilities. The gardens offer a variety of sensory experiences to suit diverse patient needs.

Outdoor ‘corridors’: Circulation routes at the rear of each private courtyard provide both patients and staff with more options for moving around the ward safely.

Non-institutional approachability: The building’s gentle, almost domestic appearance is intended to feel welcoming and familiar to patients, carers and visitors. Simple forms and warm materials give the building a human scale.

Sustainable, healthy environment: Natural lighting and ventilation are maximised to enhance occupant wellbeing and lower energy consumption. Windows are carefully oriented to avoid glare or fluctuations in light/ temperature, which can be problematic for our patient group. The scheme will benefit from renewable energy via a low-carbon air-source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Connection to nature: Rich landscaping will create a lush parkland setting for the building. Informal paths mown through the surrounding meadowland will form a meandering route between the trees for patients on grounds leave, visitors and staff to enjoy. Areas of maintained lawn, allotment gardens and seating will also offer opportunities for a wide range of therapeutic/recreational activities.