NI Hospice, Belfast

In 2009, Northern Ireland Hospice commissioned Consarc to design a new adult hospice to meet the evolving needs of palliative care across the region. The project aimed to create a patient-focused environment that reflects the hospice’s philosophy: relief from suffering, effective pain management, and holistic psychological and spiritual support. The design comprises three main elements: an 18-bed inpatient unit, a Day Hospice, and an Education and Research Centre. A strong emphasis was placed on dementia-friendly design and full accessibility, with level access throughout and direct links to private garden spaces, providing a therapeutic setting for patients and families. Enhanced car parking and security measures were also included to ensure convenience and safety.

Located within the Somerton Conservation Area, a mainly residential neighbourhood, the design respects its context by retaining two valued existing buildings and introducing new villas that reflect the domestic scale and character of the area. The contemporary architectural approach blends restored brickwork with modern materials, including render, curtain wall glazing with coloured panels, and zinc roofing, creating a harmonious mix of old and new. Completed in 2016 after nearly two years of construction, the £11 million Northern Ireland Hospice stands as a compassionate, functional, and visually sensitive facility dedicated to supporting patients and the wider community.