D E S I G N H I S T O R Y

The building in its' design and social intentions, reminds me of pre-NHS, modernist health centres which considered our health to be directly influenced by how we live our lives, not just medicinal treatments to stop disease. Wellness became a keyword in encouraging individuals that they could have a positive impact upon their own wellbeing in regards to their diet, exercise, environment and relationships with others.

The Peckham Experiment which took place at the Pioneer Health Centre, Peckham from 1926 - 50.  The new centre, built in 1935 was funded to sustain the research into social medicine made in previous years.

As the experiment was founded on an interest in the affects of our interaction with the world around us and prided itself on open observation, the building was designed accordingly. A minimal amount of internal walls and large windows allowed for both members and docters to observe each other. Windows could slide open allowing in natural light and fresh air. Great importance was placed upon physical exercise, a swimming pool lay at the heart of the building and sports and leisure activities were also encouraged.

The Finsbury Health Centre, Clerkenwell was designed by Berthold Lubetkin the Russian-born architect who also designed the famous penguin pool at London Zoo 

The open-plan H building incorporated glass brick walls to allow sunlight in all day long and also housed a solarium alongside its' clinics.  The buildings' internal walls were covered with murals designed by architect Gordon Cullen, author of The Concise Townscape