Project category: Remodel/Renovation (completed February 2006)

Chief administrator: Janet Hancock, RNC, BSN, Director of Perinatal Services, (214) 820-3240

Firm: Rees Associates, (214) 522-7337

Design team: Chandra Holloway, Project Coordinator (Rees Associates, Inc.); Bethany Jackson, Interior Designer (tandem design studio)

Photography: Craig Blackmon, FAIA

Total building area (sq. ft.): 22,000

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $28

Total construction cost (excluding land): $625,000

The Caruth Labor and Delivery Center renovation project at Baylor University Medical Center provided this renowned facility with a new environment that will lead its Obstetrics Department into the future. This new environment has enabled and supported the staff in strengthening its reputation as “the best place in Dallas to have a baby” in a highly competitive marketplace.

The 22,000-sq.-ft. center includes a Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Obstetric Observation/Triage Unit, and Delivery Center. The project was completed in 12 phases to address staff concerns regarding disturbance during construction.

The Caruth Labor and Delivery Center renovation began with a questionnaire distributed by the hospital, asking patients about their experience and what improvements they would like to see. Design began with the patient experience and care at the forefront.

The project was delivered under a tight budget, and construction was scheduled so that disruption of the day-to-day workings of the center was minimal. Nurses and physicians maintained a great attitude as construction phasing and MEP constraints affected their personal convenience in providing the best care to their patients.