Taith Newydd Low Secure Mental Health Unit
Integrated Light and Glazing Commission

Taith Newydd is a specialist low secure unit in Bridgend offering specialist mental health support and physical healthcare for service users with more complex needs. Taith Newydd has 28 ensuite bedrooms on two wards, with a range of facilities including games rooms, a gym and therapeutic areas. On behalf of Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, Studio Response commissioned artists Heinrich & Palmer to create a series of artworks for Taith Newydd.

The artworks, collectively titled Llusernau (Welsh - lanterns), comprise of three pentagonal glass mirror prisms in each of the three internal courtyards, which lie at the heart of Taith Newydd. Developed in conversation with the steering group, landscape architect and design team, the lanterns aid orientation and offer a creative lighting solution. During the day the silvered lattice pattern on the lanterns reflect the changing sky and surrounding landscape, whilst at night their traceries cast pools of dappled light and shadow. The design and form of the lanterns developed from Heinrich & Palmer’s research into the mathematical relationships of patterns in nature. Complementing these artworks are a series of frosted vinyl designs and manifestations created for key glazed areas in the building, using the foliage patterns generated through the lantern designs.