The Montefiore Hospital

Originally designed by Clayton & Black in 1899, No. 2 Montefiore Road was a furniture depository built for Hanningtons, a local department store. The building’s condition, size and location appealed to Spire Healthcare, who commissioned IBI Group to conduct a feasibility study that demonstrated the project’s viability and how the neo-classical building could be transformed into a 21st century private hospital. Acting as both architect and lead consultant, the IBI design team followed a two-stage traditional procurement route that ensured design quality was not compromised, despite a fast-moving programme.

A considered restoration of the façade sought to retain the building’s original charm and yet incorporates a modern glazed entrance that would draw patients and visitors into the foyer. Inside, the hospital has a spacious and uplifting feel, with a serene atmosphere created through thoughtfully selected colour, artwork, texture and lighting. This tone is augmented through two audio-visual art installations by musician and artist, Brian Eno.

Greeted by a bamboo-framed reception, patients are then directed through wide corridors to consultation rooms or to diagnostics. Located on the first floor are 21 stylish, ensuite bedrooms, enhanced by bespoke bed-heads and distinctive semicircle windows that flood each room with daylight. The second floor accommodates three naturally lit laminar flow operating theatres, with a chemotherapy suite located on the lower ground floor opening onto a landscaped courtyard.