Marie Curie Hospice in Newcastle commissioned us to transform an underused Christian chapel into a non-denominational space that was inviting and accessible to people from a wide range of diverse backgrounds. Our brief was to create an inclusive, warm, holding, soothing and inspiring space. To design “a room that has the wow factor”.

We used a combination of sophisticated design and specially-commissioned artworks to produce a truly unique space. The old chapel had cold, brick walls, a hard ceramic floor and heavy hardwood roof beams. For the new design we brought more softness into the room using wave forms, curves and organic shapes to lead the eye around the room and soften the hard, symmetrical brickwork. Sculptural furniture and a unique water feature enhance the effect. Holding effect.

Walls were plastered to achieve a clean white canvas – with a tint of green. Wave and circle forms were used to offset the formal square and symmetrical room with light and water adding to the metaphor.

Splashes of color can be found in the glass work, the window and within the wall sculpture. As the light changes through the day, it picks up intricate details in the dichromic glass and casts colour onto the walls.

The sculptural furniture harmonizes with the waves forms, encouraging the eye to journey around the room, with its final resting place a natural stone water feature.

“Definitely satisfied – our vision for the room has been translated absolutely and has, as we requested, the wow factor”Pauline Lowes, Hospice Manger

“The room is beautiful and a real asset to our hospice. What used to be a very religious space is now a tranquil setting for all visitors, patients, staff and volunteers to visit.”Gill White, Facilities Manager