A new care facility for Luton
Procured through the Crown Commercial Services Framework, contractor Kier delivered a new building at the Luton and Dunstable University Hospital in England. The £142m, 16 700-square-metre project includes maternity, neonatal, theatre, and critical care facilities, supporting 5500 births annually and significantly enhancing services. The scheme ensured uninterrupted care and was built live within the centre of the hospital while neighbouring blocks remained in use. As part of the project, Rockfon acoustic ceiling solutions were introduced for acoustic comfort and to meet the strict hygiene and durability required.
Hygiene, colour, and acoustic comfort
The London-based architectural practice Murphy Philipps brought a wealth of healthcare sector experience to the project. “First and foremost, we require hygienic environment ceilings in clinical settings – this determines the specification in all these areas", explains Associate Paul Young. "With the exception of high-risk clinical spaces such as operating theatres, we have used Rockfon MediCare tiles and Rockfon MediCare Plus throughout birthing suites, patient bedrooms, and multi-bed bays – Rockfon MediCare Standard in offices, corridors and patient kitchens, among other spaces."
In common with all Rockfon ranges, Rockfon MediCare features a core of recycled and recyclable stone wool, made from volcanic stone, which is naturally non-combustible with inherent microbial resistance. Alongside Class A1 fire resistance, the range provides cleanability, high light reflectance, and low particle emission, making it an ideal choice for healthcare environments.
In staff areas and waiting rooms that did not require such a high level of hygienic performance, the architects introduced colour across the ceilings using the Rockfon Color-all range. They were selected in two shades from the Colours of Wellbeing, "Fresh" – a light blue – and "Mint" – a light green – adding warmth and visual impact.
Nigel Hawes, Managing Director at Macai Limited, noted, “As part of a £5m drylining and ceilings package, we were responsible for the installation of 4000 square metres of Rockfon ceilings at the hospital, incorporating the T15 and T24 Click Chicago Metallic grids. I’m pleased to say this is the third hospital project we have successfully completed using Rockfon acoustic ceiling systems.”
“This project gave us the opportunity to continue our highly valued relationships with Kier and Murphy Philipps, to again demonstrate the outstanding performance characteristics embodied in our specialist Rockfon MediCare offering", said Alan Davies, Rockfon Specification Manager. "In addition to its required compliance with HBN 10 and HTM 60, Rockfon MediCare offers the highest sound absorption, Class A – an important consideration when research shows that the successful control of sound can aid well-being and recovery.”
The UK's National Health Service has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040, with an 80 percent reduction target between 2028 and 2032. The project demonstrates Kier’s expertise in sustainability and prefabrication, with low-carbon concrete and off-site manufactured components reducing both vehicle movements and carbon impact. Rockfon ceiling solutions were specified for their sustainable credentials, circularity, and certifications.
Commitment and dedication to community care
The new building at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital highlights how an acoustic strategy along with high-performing acoustic solutions can make a visible difference for staff, patients, and their families. “The commitment and dedication from all… has been astounding. These buildings will provide modern facilities, allowing our teams to continue delivering excellent care to the local community", comments Melanie Banks, Director of Redevelopment and Strategic Planning at Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
