Harbor Hospice

A specialist palliative care provider for families of the North Shore and surrounding areas, Harbor Hospice provides services including medical care, spiritual support, physiotherapy and social activities for the local community.  The recent $20 million refurbishment includes additional patient rooms, multi-use spaces and carefully considered facilities for families and carers.  

The North West Elevation of the Hospice features a balcony running along its length.  The design uses a louvred pergola frame to separate the areas for individual access from the adjoining hospice rooms.  At the front edge of the balconies are planter boxes, adding privacy from below and introducing the undeniable benefits of plants to patients and visitors.  

The intent was to provide a space to enjoy the natural benefits of sunshine and the introduced greenery while retaining a degree of privacy and shade.  It’s an area for fresh air, relaxation and a temporary escape from the reasons for visiting or staying. 

Insol was responsible for the design and engineering of the balcony elements. The pergola uses Solaris 150 louvres for the roof, with Solaris 100 louvres orientated vertically to provide separation between balcony areas.  Both are finished in a Dulux Electro Brilliance powdercoat. 

The planters were intended to also act as a balustrade, with a bespoke Insol design made of double-skin aluminium and finished in a Dulux Mannex Titania powdercoat.  

The balcony at Harbor Hospice offers a brief respite from the serious reasons patients and visitors have for being there.  There’s a degree of visual privacy from other balcony users, shade when needed, and the relaxing company of greenery.  Stepping out onto the balcony provides a breath of fresh air and a moment in the sun.  And sometimes, that’s exactly what’s needed. 

Architect  Klein                                               Contractor  Rucon Construction

Location  North Shore, Auckland