The redevelopment plan of this 100-year-old hospital was accomplished through a phased modernization program to create a more patient-focused atmosphere and to competitively reposition the hospital in the marketplace. The 300,000-square-foot medical-campus building program encompassed deconstruction of outmoded buildings and complete modernization of existing buildings, including infrastructure. The plan addresses the future of Saint Francis Hospital with innovative ideas and aggressive strategies conducive to the changing healthcare environment.

An integral part of the redevelopment program was the renovation of the main entrance, featuring a new reception/security desk and gift shop, which set the tone of the hospital’s vision for the future through careful attention to detail, responsiveness to patient and physician needs, improved security, and dynamic creativity.

The north wing of the fifth floor was fully renovated to house a new Family Birthing Center offering a highly secured, homelike environment where mothers can deliver in comfortable private rooms. A carefully controlled circulation pattern in the 16,000-square-foot center provides the highest level of security for patients, staff, family, and visitors.

Another major project was the strategic relocation of the Heart Center into more than 14,000 square feet on the first floor of the hospital, placing this vital unit at the front door of the facility. The new heart center offers expanded cardiac services and treatment areas.

Located in a building slated for demolition, the Outpatient Physical Rehabilitation Unit was relocated and downsized to consolidate shared space for physical, occupational, and speech therapy programs organized around a central staff work area. Through the use of glass and geometrics that contrast with the typical straight corridor, interior vistas were created to give a sense of openness. The patient services area opens to a landscaped courtyard, flooding the space with natural light to enhance the rehabilitation process.

To make room for the emergency department expansion and provide a prominent location for a much-needed nondenominational meditation room, the Chapel and Meditation Room were relocated to the center of the first floor. The L-shaped, 2,150-square-foot chapel’s design reflects the hospital’s Franciscan heritage and its emphasis on nature. Soft enveloping forms, understated natural finishes, and simple details using glass identify the spiritual space and its circulation, as well as expressing unity.

Existing conference rooms were renovated to become a new Physicians’ Lounge. The enlarged lounge features a serving kitchen and dining area, locker rooms with showers, and a computer work space to allow doctors to do research and documentation, as well as relax and socialize.

Project category: Remodel/Renovation (completed August 2003)

Chief administrator: Sherlyn Hailstone, Executive Vice-President and CEO, (847) 316-2352

Firm: Loebl Schlossman & Hackl, (312) 565-1800

Design team: Giles van der Bogert, AIA, Principal-in-Charge; James B. Pritchett, AIA, Project Manager; George Chapman, AIA, Project Designer; Csaba Szekelyhidi, Medical Planner; Pamela Rosenberg, IIDA, Project Interior Designer

Photography: Bruce Van Inwegen, http://www.BVIPhoto.com; Barry Rustin

Total building area (sq. ft.): 62,500 (new); 150,000 (renovation)

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $290 (new); $95 (renovation)

Total cost (excluding land): $18,125,000 (new); $14,250,000 (renovation)