Burrell Street Sexual Health Centre Client: Guy's and St Thomas's NHS Health Trust Completed: 2012

Taking the stigma out of visiting a sexual health facility

Urban Salon were architect and interior designers on the refurbishment of two railway arches to create a sexual health centre for the NHS. The brief was to create a welcoming sexual health centre which had a look and feel that was very different from the standardised hospital environment to help break down taboos around the nature of the centre.

The design incorporates a welcoming informal waiting area with a communal table and complimentary coffee and generous daylit circulation. The consultation rooms that are divided into two separate areas - a warm conversational space to encourage discussion and a fresh clinical examination section. Artwork throughout the centre such as mobiles comprising forms that are reminiscent of sexual organs and ceiling art illustrating sexual puns create a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

Visitor numbers have increased and feedback has been very positive.

'Setting visitors at ease, while having a little fun with the subject matter.'

Healthcare Design Magazine, June 2013.