The newly completed Leaf Room was officially opened on November 11 by Shona Robison, cabinet secretary for health, wellbeing & sport.

The innovative design was inspired from a natural leaf form helping to connect the building to the garden it serves. The building is extremely environmentally conscious being constructed primarily in natural Scottish timber, and is uniquely 100 per cent ‘off grid’.

The large amount of natural light coming into the building and a solar-powered security light means that there are no electricity requirements. Rainwater will be harvested from the roof and collected in a large container at the rear of the building to help water the garden.

In a statement the Voigt Partnership wrote: “The Leaf Room is innovative and exciting; and sits comfortably in the garden space it occupies, creating a strong connection between building and garden. The new room is a fantastic addition to the garden, and it is hoped that staff, patients and the public will benefit this and be attracted the to the excellent existing community garden which is a real hidden gem at the hospital.”

A design competition for the project was launched in April 2015, for which the Voigt

Partnership was shortlisted to the last three in Scotland.

Judging took place in July 2015 with judges saying that the winning design “showcases how Scottish timber can be used in construction to create a landmark structure for people to enjoy all year round. Not only did the Voigt Partnership demonstrate skilful development in their detailed design they also maintained the clarity of concept that had been presented at Stage one.”