Neonatal Department
The expansion, remodelling, and refurbishment of a live Neonatal clinical unit — transformed through a carefully phased 13-month programme to create one of the largest neonatal units in the country.
| Sector | Healthcare (Paediatrics) |
|---|---|
| Cost | Approx. £1.5M |
| Role | Concept Architect, Project Manager, Interior Designer |
the brief
Expand, remodel, and refurbish a live Neonatal Unit, delivering a modern, family-friendly environment while maintaining full clinical operations throughout a complex, six-phase construction programme.
what studio mode did
Studio Mode was appointed as concept architect, project manager, and interior designer for this complex scheme. We worked closely with clinicians to develop the brief, then designed the concept layout and GA plans, as well as the detailed phasing strategy needed to keep the unit operational throughout construction.
We project managed the scheme through detailed design and production information, oversaw contractor selection, and led liaison with the Hospital Estates team—securing all the necessary approvals along the way.
We also designed the interior—using the children’s board game Snakes and Ladders as inspiration. This playful theme served as a visual thread linking the different nurseries, while offering colour, interest, and a welcome bit of distraction for parents and siblings alike.
During the full 13-month construction programme, we continued as project managers, leading the scheme through to handover and occupation.
Staff and users alike have responded positively, and feedback from patients and visitors has been great. The project was delivered on time, on budget, and is now regularly visited by neonatal teams from other hospitals keen to see what’s possible. The scheme was officially opened by Sandra Gidley MP—who seemed quite chipper about the whole thing.
“There promises to be a bright future in more ways than one as Southampton’s Neonatal Facility is officially opened after £1.4 million revamp.”
any tricky bits?
A six-phase build right in the middle of a live neonatal ward? Absolutely. The entire project demanded precise coordination, rigorous infection control, and minimal disruption—especially in terms of noise. Communication with the unit’s staff was constant and collaborative. A real example of close-knit teamwork (it had to be).