Work starts on St Thomas' Hospital east wing recladding scheme

The Hopkins Architects design, which will give a new lease of life to the existing East Wing, was chosen by patients, staff and members of the public.

The year-long project will result in two airy and light glass atriums, and modern cladding of the exterior to weather-proof the building and improve energy efficiency.

East wing is at the heart of St Thomas' Hospital and currently houses cardiology services, two intensive care units and admission wards. Two new patient lifts will allow a smoother transition for critically ill patients between A&E and the wards and intensive care in east wing.

The wing also houses 200 beds as well as clinical suites and offices, teaching facilities and ancillary plant and storage areas. All of these facilities will remain fully operational throughout the duration of the project.

Artwork will bring the atriums to life. Designs chosen by patients, staff and members of the public will help create a relaxing, more comfortable environment.

The project is being managed by Essentia, the trust's capital, estates and facilities directorate.

Steve McGuire, director of Essentia, says: "We are committed to providing the best environment possible for our patients, and careful planning has meant we are able to make these improvements at a time when the NHS is under financial pressure."