Nicola Marray-Woods

This is one of the most meaningful and emotional projects of my career. Peddars Way Ward at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital is a purpose-built end-of-life unit and I was asked to decorate the space with sensitivity to the experience of the patients and families. I learnt a lot from the process and have since completed two more large projects at the hospital. 

 

The theme is Norfolk nature. Huge dandelion clocks frame the entrance and a rowan tree sits behind the front desk. Norfolk wildflowers frame the skirting, starting in spring and finishing with red poppies at the end of the corridor. Each room is themed with a photo skylight and the tree or plant that gives it its name. 

 

Tiny details were important, from the tiny ladybirds hidden amongst the wildflowers to distract younger visitors to the mini-beasts on the signs to each room to help identify them for those with English as an additional language. 

 

Collaboration and ownership were vital throughout. The whole palliative care team was involved in the design process and I made substantial changes as a result. Everyone from the team, the hospital senior management and even the lead building contractor helped to paint the wildflower corridor, and the vibrant Relatives’ Room mural of Wells-Next-The-Sea was based on a photo taken by a member of staff.