“Healthcare projects require specialist knowledge, attention to detail and critical design thinking; the Fremantle Hospital Mental Health Project has been no exception. Each of the three floor plates serves a distinct and carefully considered purpose in supporting the functionality of the facility.”
05 February 2024
Construction Underway for the Fremantle Hospital 40 Bed Mental Health Project
Starting 2024 with a bang, we’re excited to announce that construction has officially begun for the Fremantle Hospital 40 Bed Mental Health Project. Hunt Architects, Fremantle Hospital, the Department of Finance, and the South Metropolitan Health Services are coordinating the expansion that will bring 40 additional mental health beds to Fremantle Hospital, which is significantly increasing treatment and support options for patients. Situated in Fremantle WA, the project is more than 4500sqm and spans across three floor plates. The project will increase the number of inpatient mental health beds at Fremantle Hospital by more than 60 per cent. Recently announced by the WA Government the scope of works include:
20 secure beds;
10 beds for open adults;
A 10-bed neurological behavior unit tailored for older adults;
24-hour mental health urgent care service;
and a new neurostimulation unit.
It was important to all project parties that the design sought inspiration from biophilic principles, enhancing the well-being of occupants by fostering direct and indirect connections with nature. Subtle ties to natural elements, including biomorphic forms and patterns, materiality and textural associations with nature, as well as colours. These elements contribute to creating a therapeutic environment.
A key aspect of the model of care adopted is the promotion of staff and patient interaction. Throughout the wards, collaboration hubs will be carefully placed to encourage openness and communication, fostering an environment conducive to the overall well-being of both staff and patients. Through a co-design approach, the project team have strived to create a space that not only meets the functional, capacity demands but also contributes to the overall well-being of those seeking mental health support, and working in the mental health sector.
As experts in the health and hospital sector, the Hunt Architects team have had the privilege of working on multiple large, complex medical projects like the Fremantle Hospital 40 Bed Mental Health Project. Other notable projects include the Royal Perth Intensive Care Unit, the Albany Radiation Oncology Service, Bethesda Hospital and the Head to Health facilities in both Midland and Armadale, to name a few. As the lead architectural consultant, we’re excited to be exercising our knowledge and expertise in such a transformative healthcare project like the Fremantle Hospital 40 Bed Mental Health Project which is providing better access to Western Australians to various mental health services.
