Why is standardisation in hospital design so hard - and what can we do about it?

The reality: hospitals are inherently complex

Hospitals are among the most sophisticated and demanding buildings we construct. They must accommodate a wide range of clinical functions, integrate advanced technologies, and maintain precise environmental conditions. These requirements are further complicated by the involvement of numerous stakeholders, clinicians, engineers, patients, and funders, each bringing their own perspectives and priorities.

This complexity often leads to bespoke solutions. While tailored designs may seem advantageous, they frequently result in longer timelines, higher costs, and reduced replicability. In many cases, custom does not equate to better; it simply means more complicated.

The opportunity: unlocking value through standardisation

When we utilise proven standards and evidence-based design, we achieve high-quality, fit-for-purpose hospitals that: Focus areas that deliver impact Some of the most impactful areas to standardise include:

• Technical systems: fire safety, water, medical gases, infection control, acoustics, and resilience
• Spatial design: structural grids, floor-to-ceiling heights, modular layouts, and standard room types
• Sustainability and digital infrastructure: often overlooked but critical for long-term value
  

In procurement models such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Design & Build, strong upfront requirements are essential. Standardised approaches reduce the risk of costly changes and help ensure that the final product aligns with clinical and operational needs.

Focus areas that deliver impact

Some of the most impactful areas to standardise include:

• Technical systems: fire safety, water, medical gases, infection control, acoustics, and resilience.
• Spatial design: structural grids, floor-to-ceiling heights, modular layouts, and standard room types.
• Sustainability and digital infrastructure: often overlooked but critical for long-term value.

Working with existing standards

Mature healthcare-specific technical standards - such as the NHS Health Technical Memoranda (HTMs), the Australian Health Facility Guidelines and the Canadian Standards for Healthcare Facilities, offer a strong foundation.

Where local standards exist, international frameworks can bridge gaps and enhance coherence. This was exemplified in the Peru Reconstruction Programme, where global best practices were successfully integrated with local requirements to create a unified design standard.

The UK approach to standardisation

The New Hospital Programme’s approach to standardisation, known as ‘Hospital 2.0’, has been designed with clinical and operating staff and aims to speed up construction, decrease the overall time for hospitals to be built and result in facilities that maximise modern technologies. The standard approach allows for lessons to be learnt iteratively as schemes complete within the programme, creating a repository of knowledge for future projects. A hospital built through Hospital 2.0 principles will use sustainable and modern methods of construction.

Emerging markets: making best practice accessible

In emerging markets, limited budgets and capacity can make it hard to develop bespoke requirements. That’s where standardisation shines.
We’ve developed a suite of practical, holistic guidelines tailored for PPP hospital projects in these settings. In collaboration with partners such as Murphy Phillipps and Arup, we’ve created tools that support:

• Demand and capacity modelling
• Clinical briefing and functional content
• Room data sheets and schedules of accommodation
• Equipping strategies and site due diligence
• Design briefs and technical output specifications

These resources enable countries to benefit from international best practices while tailoring solutions to their local needs.

Standardisation as a strategic lever

Standardisation is not about imposing rigid templates. It’s about providing clarity, building confidence, and maximising the value of every pound, dollar, or euro invested in healthcare infrastructure. A modest investment in standardisation at the outset can yield significant returns in quality, efficiency, and long-term adaptability.

Let’s talk about transforming healthcare design

Are you navigating the complexities of hospital planning or delivery? Discover how strategic standardisation can streamline your project, reduce risk, and deliver long-term value.

Get in touch via k.wood@archus.uk.com to explore tailored solutions, proven frameworks, and collaborative opportunities that bring clarity to complexity.