Work has completed on a £1 million skin surgery and dermatology clinic in Gateshead, designed by Medical Architecture for private provider, Skin Surgery Clinic, which is said to offer ‘hospital-grade’ facilities in a ‘bespoke, patient-focused environment.’
The new clinic is the result of the reconfiguration and fit-out of an existing commercial unit, working within the building’s constraints to create a high-quality clinical setting. Requiring a rapid turnaround, the design was established within six weeks, with the fit-out then completed in 10 by Ben Johnson Interiors.
Medical Architecture said: “The 250 m² facility makes efficient use of the available space – providing four consultation rooms, which offer a private setting for patient assessment, consultation, and treatment planning, and four minor operations suites. Three of the suites feature dedicated recovery rooms, allowing for a comfortable transition from treatment to recovery.
“The interior has been designed to create a welcoming environment which reflects the high standard of clinical care, putting patients at ease as they arrive. The professional aesthetic reflects the distinct brand identity of Skin Surgery Clinic, while materials and joinery are coordinated to create positive moments in the patient’s journey. Integrated recessed seating with oak detailing offers a comfortable place for short waits away from the main waiting area.”
The clinic has been carefully designed to meet CQC and Health Building Note (HBN) and Health Technical Memoranda (HTM) standards, ensuring high levels of patient safety and ease of working for staff. This includes a compliant positive pressure air-handling system that serves all treatment rooms, to minimise infection risk and maintain a sterile environment. The upgraded mechanical and electrical systems have been discreetly incorporated into the design, maintaining a seamless aesthetic.
Alex Ferguson, architect at Medical Architecture, said: “We have enjoyed transforming this existing commercial space into a high-quality clinical environment that provides a positive experience that patients will value. The project has really demonstrated what can be achieved in a short space of time, with diligent and collaborative working.”
Other project team members included fit-out contractor, Ben Johnson Interiors, MEP engineer, A.E. Robb & Associates, Principal Designer, Summers-Inman, and Building Control, Bluekeep Building Control.
