CAMHS Coborn Unit, Newham

The Coborn Centre in Newham is a Children and Adolescent Mental Health Unit treating young people with acute and severe forms of mental illness.

Typically these can include major mood disorders, psychosis, complex neuropsychiatric disorders, amongst other mental health conditions.

The entire process of design was developed around the model of care, with consideration being given to how the building would encourage the engagement of staff and young people within a secure and safe environment. 

The unit includes facilities for twelve long-stay patients, a three-person psychiatric intensive care unit, educational facilities, a series of day and group spaces, an assisted daily living kitchen, and a small gym, together with staff support areas.

The building layout and design were the outcome of an extensive research project based on understanding the experiences of young people within mental healthcare settings. This was carried out through a series of interviews and collaborative activities with findings and suggestions incorporated into the building design through a collaborative stakeholder engagement process.

The articulation of the building is two curvilinear blocks linked by glazed walkways that overlook a landscaped courtyard. The idea being to bring daylight into the plan enhancing well-being, and, to introduce daily routine to the residents. Effectively they leave the bedrooms (ie overnight accommodation) in the morning, and ‘head off to school’ to the education and recreation spaces for daytime activities.