Devonshire Royal Hospital

Devonshire Royal Hospital is a notable historic building and former hospital located in Buxton, Derbyshire, England. Originally designed and constructed as a stable block in the 18th century by architect John Carr of York, it was transformed into a hospital in the 19th century under the patronage of the Duke of Devonshire, from whom it derives its name. The building is renowned for its remarkable dome, which was once the largest unsupported dome in the world until the completion of the Houston Astrodome in 1965.

History

The Devonshire Royal Hospital's origins trace back to 1785 when it was initially built as the Great Stables for the 5th Duke of Devonshire, part of his plan to establish Buxton as a fashionable spa town. The stables could accommodate up to 120 horses and included servants' quarters. However, with the decline in the use of horses for transport and the rise of the railway, the building's original purpose became redundant.

In the mid-19th century, the building underwent a significant transformation. In 1859, it was repurposed as the Devonshire Hospital, serving primarily as a sanatorium for the treatment of patients with tuberculosis and other respiratory conditions, taking advantage of Buxton's clean air and thermal waters. The conversion included the addition of the dome, designed by architect Robert Rippon Duke, which covered the former riding house. The dome, with a diameter of 44.2 meters, was an engineering marvel of its time and contributed significantly to the building's architectural significance.

Architecture

The Devonshire Royal Hospital is an exemplary piece of Georgian architecture, with the dome being its most striking feature. The dome's construction was innovative for its time, utilizing a system of timber and iron trusses that supported the slate and glass covering without the need for internal columns. This architectural feat created a vast open space beneath the dome, which was used as a therapeutic environment for patients.

The building's facade is equally impressive, characterized by its symmetry and classical proportions, typical of the Georgian style. The conversion of the building from stables to a hospital included the addition of new wings and the adaptation of existing spaces to serve medical functions, all while maintaining the architectural integrity of the original structure.

Modern Use

After its closure as a hospital in 2000, the Devonshire Royal Hospital underwent another transformation. It is now part of the University of Derby and serves as the Buxton Campus, housing the University's Department of Hotel Management and Culinary Arts, among others. The dome has been preserved and is used as a multipurpose space for events, exhibitions, and as a student learning environment.

Heritage Status

The Devonshire Royal Hospital is a Grade II* listed building, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. Its listing protects the building and ensures that any modifications respect its heritage and architectural integrity.

Conclusion

The Devonshire Royal Hospital stands as a testament to the adaptive reuse of historic buildings, having served multiple purposes over its existence. From its beginnings as a grand stable to its time as a pioneering medical facility, and now as an educational institution, it remains a landmark in Buxton and a significant piece of England's architectural heritage.