Design award for special project
(Gazette 28/6/2007)

The Hospice of St Francis has won a top design award in recognition of its eight year project to create a new state-of-the-art, eco-friendly building. The Hospice won the Special Project accolade at the Chilterns Conservation Board and The Chilterns Society annual design awards, which aim to encourage the highest quality in the design and construction of local buildings.

Richard Wheeler, chairman of the Design Award judges, said: "We were very impressed with the huge enthusiasm and vision that has created this building.
"It functions very well internally, is something of great value and enhances the site that it occupies."

The hospice has been helping the terminally ill since 1979 and the decision to build a new home was taken in 1999. After several years of relentless fundraising and planning the new site on Shootersway, Berkhamsted, was opened in June 2006.

Dr Ros Taylor, chief executive at the hospice, said: "The award means so much to us. "We had a grand vision to build a hospice and create a garden that would enhance and respect the natural landscape and provide a haven of calm and healing for the patients and families who need our care. "This award is a tribute to all those who have helped us on our journey to achieve this vision."

The magnificent building comes equipped with eight beds, a day hospice, relaxing garden, pavilion, chapel, family support and much more.
It costs £2m each year to keep the hospice afloat and the team who run it are always on the look out for donations and new ways to raise funds. For more information or to donate visit http://www. stfrancis.org.uk.