The Orangery: St. Raphael’s Hospice

The Orangery project at St Raphael’s Hospice is a new build extension providing much needed family, fundraising and support accommodation for the hospice. Funded through a DoH grant, the key aim of the extension was to provide a flexible space within the hospice for relatives and patients to relax and share experiences.  Additionally it provides a function facility for fundraising events. 

The main space contains a community café with a light and friendly atmosphere and views of the garden. Day to day the cafeteria is used by both patients and relatives, with the aim of encouraging patient independence, giving relatives a break out space, and a place in which to meet other relatives.  The café is normally run by volunteers, and proceeds go towards running the hospice.

The hospice runs a number of fundraising events, and the flexibility of the main room was important to enable a variety of activities to be accommodated. The café overlooks a landscaped courtyard, and is fully glazed to one elevation allowing events to spill outdoors. Alongside the café/function room, there is a private family room that can be used for family meetings or where relatives can stay overnight if required. The new extension is supported by sanitary facilities and a preparation kitchen allowing outside caterers for larger functions.