The Oak Cancer Centre

Sutton, Greater London

Civic Trust Awards Citation

The Oak Cancer Centre, situated on the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trusts Sutton hospital campus, is committed to providing early cancer diagnosis and patient-centric treatment experiences. 

The complex structure seamlessly weaves together diagnostic, treatment, education, and research spaces within a central atrium, fostering a holistic approach to cancer care. Navigating the challenges of acoustic and thermal comfort in such a multifunctional facility, the design team strategically selected materials and ventilation systems, creating an environment that exudes calmness and purpose. This attention to detail enhances the overall experience for patients, visitors, and staff, contributing to a serene atmosphere conducive to healing. 

The site’s natural slope has been utilised to establish distinct entrances for main treatments and diagnostics, offering patients a sense of journey progression. The main entrance, set amid a wildflower landscape, radiates a welcoming ambiance, while a lower-key diagnostic entrance provides separation, acknowledging the diverse stages of patients’ cancer journeys. Externally, the architecture conveys prestige, modernity, and a commitment to passive environmental control, reflecting the cuttingedge nature of medical advancements. The interior layout, though deceptively simple, effectively links clinical wings with research and educational spaces through the central atrium. The designers’ choice of a contemporary palette, including taupe and grey with touches of blonde wood, creates a soothing atmosphere that complements the purposeful character of the facility. Small yet crucial details, such as full-height windows at corridor terminations, contribute to intuitive wayfinding and enhance legibility. Private quiet rooms provide spaces for confidential discussions, acknowledging the importance of privacy in patient care. 

The integration of research and education is visibly successful, projecting a sense of purpose and innovation. Beyond patient care, the Oak Cancer Centre recognises the well-being of its staff. Generous breakout spaces, including a canteen and a roof terrace with spectacular views, cater to the needs of the medical professionals, acknowledging the stressful nature of their work. 

Due to extensive consultation throughout the design process with clinicians, patients, and the local community who provided input into how the building would be required to operate, what equipment and services needed to be next to each other and how various intricate functional requirements would need to be thoughtfully considered, the resulting building is a great success.

Judges’ Comments: “The Oak Cancer Centre provides an optimal environment for patients, visitors, and clinicians.”