My Favourite Building: Kevin Wood on Martin House Hospice
QUANTITY surveyor Kevin Wood of Walker Sime in Leeds has worked on a wide variety of projects ranging from listed buildings through to railway stations, supermarkets, factories and universities, all of which have varied in scale, cost and prestige. But it is a hospice that really sparks his imagination.
“DURING my eight years as a contractors’ quantity surveyor, I had the pleasure of working on a small scheme at Martin House Hospice in Boston Spa, Wetherby.
“The building was small in scale, but exquisitely designed in the shape of a hat, with a curved roof and high peak gables and constructed in the finest Portland stone; it truly is a beautiful building.
“However, it isn’t only the memory of the building that has remained with me all these years, but also the inspirational attitudes of the youngsters and their families who attended the hospice for care and treatment whilst coping with serious illness.
“I cannot help but wonder how people find the strength to cope with such adversity and I know that the building we constructed has been fully utilised and appreciated by all those who have used the facilities over the years.
“The memories of this project have remained with me throughout my career and continue to inspire me to deliver buildings and schemes that really do make a difference to communities.
“I feel strongly that our industry is in a very privileged position, creating the buildings, spaces and environment that can do this and I have thoroughly enjoyed the first 30 years in the profession.”
Are you a property professional with a favourite building? Contact Deputy Editor Ian Briggs on 0113 3944325 or email ian.briggs@thebusinessdesk.com to share your architectural gems.
