Geotype Submission

The Geotype project charts the rich history of lettering and type forms that have established the identity of cities and towns around the world. Explore the map

How does this letter-form communicate its location?

The ornate typographic structure of Corbett Hospital’s original wrought iron gates (1891) contrasts with the modern clinical architecture of the contemporary building. Originally Hill House, the building was converted into a hospital in 1891, designated for treatment of industrial injuries and only accessible to paid subscribers. The integration of the typography into the architectural structure of the gates asserts a sense of institutional status and dominance which assisted its prohibitive role to restrict entrance of non subscribers. It also offered infection control, enabling porters to turn away patients with symptoms of diseases such as measles and diphtheria. Now an NHS facility, the preservation of the original gates echoes the class division present at the time of their installation and a reminder of social progress.

Location

Vicarage Rd, Amblecote, Stourbridge DY8 4JB