Teenage Cancer Care at The Beatson, Teenage Cancer Trust | BMJ Architects

A Vibrant Care Environment for Young People

BMJ Architects designed the Teenage Cancer Care unit within The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, creating a dedicated environment for teenage patients receiving cancer care.

Client Teenage Cancer Trust Location Glasgow, UK Area 3,000 sqm

Patient bedroom in the Teenage Cancer Care unit at The Beatson, with a bed, desk, television and large window.

Concept and Strategy

The six-bed ward provides a vibrant and supportive setting where young patients can interact with each other, remain connected to the outside world and retain a greater degree of independence during treatment.

Patients can spend up to six months in the unit, so the design needed to feel different from a conventional clinical ward. BMJ worked collaboratively with teenage patients to develop an approach that discreetly integrates clinical functionality within a modern hotel-style aesthetic.

Chill out zone in the Teenage Cancer Care unit at The Beatson, showing games, computer stations, seating and colourful interior design.

Close-up of feature lighting in the Teenage Cancer Care unit, with red illuminated circular lights and curved ceiling details.

A Social Space for Connection and Independence

The result is a space that young people can identify with and feel comfortable using, while still meeting the clinical requirements of the ward.

The main feature of the unit is the chill out zone, which combines a music and DVD station, TV area, kitchen diner, computer suite and games area. This shared social space helps support independence, connection and a sense of normality for patients during long periods of care.