Lakes DHB selected RCG to develop a concept for a new mental health facility for acute care based on a new model of care that would take the needs of local community and users, in particular Maori, into consideration. The resulting design is highly innovative for a health sector that has made little change over the last 100 years. Accommodation in the concept is based on whare and whanau. Whanau and Community are put into the centre of the concept surrounded by staff support. The model of care is literally given shape to in the concept.
