The new centre increases capacity and staff numbers, and imbues a sense of tranquillity and psychological wellbeing. 18 months' design development involved close collaboration with clinicians, patients and architectural advisers. Ongoing user group meetings with 19 departments clarified everything from room relationships to equipment locations.

The East Riding village theme, achieved through careful choice of materials, blends into neighbouring countryside. Glazed links provide natural sunlight and views. Nine courtyards feature intimate walled gardens; proven to have psychological and physical health benefits. Nearly all 800 rooms look out over courtyards, gardens or landscape. The 'walk in the woods' – a high-level glazed walkway – provides seamless access from the main hospital.

The project improved on NHS Estates’ energy targets by achieving 55 GJ/100m3/annum, where most acute facilities achieve only 65-69.9 GJ/100m³, through the use of topography, orientation and U-values 20% better than building regulations specification. Green roofs encourage wildlife, and HLM carried out extensive protection of the existing aquifer and provision of swale for attenuation of surface water drainage and local ecology support.

David Kitching, head of PFI development, said of the new facility; “We have a fantastic building which impacts on the wellbeing of patients. All at HLM … should be proud of their achievement. Thank you for the way your team interacted with Trust staff, patients and advisers throughout the design process which has resulted in the caring environment and design excellence we set out to achieve.”