The London Institute for Healthcare Engineering (LIHE) By: HLM Architects Construction has now completed on King’s College London’s newest facility – the London Institute for Healthcare Engineering (LIHE) – in partnership with the Guys and St. Thomas’ Trust. Embedded in St Thomas’ Hospital, the project is a state-of-the-art research and innovation hub where medicine and education will come together, developing treatments of the future. Drawing on their experience in designing research facilities, HLM employed their ‘HLM Insight’ digital tool. The online questionnaire explored building users’ preferences for how spaces should support their activities and wellbeing. It examines psychological and physiological needs, producing a brief that fosters health, wellbeing, and productivity. The surveys revealed that researchers focused on intensive tasks value stable temperatures, good ventilation, and consistent comfort—without the need to adjust settings themselves. This poses a design challenge, as natural ventilation is often prioritised for sustainability. High-quality task lighting and views to the outside were also important, with research showing that such views can reduce stress and blood pressure. Access to nature and natural materials helps researchers stay calm and connected, especially during long periods indoors. Additionally, chance interactions with colleagues, outside of immediate teams were seen as key to … Continue reading King’s College Opens Cutting-Edge Research Hub