Exploring the design concepts of British military hospitals in Malta with a focus on two case studies

Abstract

The British left a remarkable legacy in hospital architecture, particularly during the colonial era, introducing advanced concepts as influenced by Florence Nightingale’s principles. Such progressive mentalities in medical design were also evident in the Maltese context, particularly through the development of Military hospitals. This study explored the key design concepts underlying British Military Hospitals in Malta and focused on (1) the architectural layouts, design principles and strategies used and 2) the relationship between the hospitals and their surroundings, assessing how such integration contributed to healing and recovery. Two historical examples have been used as case studies: Bighi Royal Naval Hospital and Mtarfa David Bruce Military Hospital, to address the research questions. A qualitative research design was employed, involving data triangulation, with information obtained from site visits, archival documentation, and published literature about the case studies. Findings revealed that both hospitals incorporated several design principles consistent with Florence Nightingale’s philosophy of therapeutic environments, such as passive design strategies which aid the general wellbeing of patients and staff, and including cross-ventilation and the control of sunlight infiltration. Additionally, health was also promoted through the control of cross-contamination within the hospitals, and wellbeing was further supported by means of community integration, views of the surroundings and nature, and climate-responsive design adaptations. In conclusion, the findings highlight the evolving hospital design implemented by the British in the local context, and underscores how balancing between architectural ideologies and the connection to the surroundings is vital for the overall wellbeing of patients and staff.