Project category: Remodel/Renovation (completed July 2006)

Chief administrator: Paula Quan, Executive Director of Corporate Real Estate, (617) 919-4023

Firm: Steffian Bradley Architects, (617) 305-7100

Design team: Kurt Rockstroh, AIA, Project Executive; Stephen Van Ness, AIA, Principal-in-Charge; Teresa Wilson, AIA, Project Designer; Sallyann Thomas, Principal-in-Charge of Interior Design (Steffian Bradley Architects); Micheal Heath, AIA, Project Manager (formerly of Steffian Bradley Architects)

Photography: ©2006 Robert Benson Photography

Total building area (sq. ft.): 54,078

Construction cost/sq. ft.: Not released

Total construction cost (excluding land): Not released

This satellite ambulatory facility for Children’s Hospital Boston was created by renovating the interior of an existing 1970s medical center. Children’s Hospital Boston at Waltham (CHBW) redefines the pediatric healthcare environment with a whimsical design scheme and carefully planned organization. Designed to pacify the anxieties experienced by young patients and their accompanying families, the Imaging and Surgery Suites at CHBW have set new standards for patient care and staff support.

A nature theme informs the interior design to create a calming, soothing atmosphere. The Imaging Suite’s earth tones invoke “forest” surroundings. In the reception and waiting areas, structural columns appear as tree trunks reaching up to the clouds above, and elliptical ceiling panels suggest a scattering of leaves overhead. The Surgery Center immerses visitors in an “underwater” adventure, with waves cresting along the frosted glass and sand-colored walls. These dynamic spaces are enhanced with curvaceous furniture, decorative glass panels, an innovative lighting design, and playful artwork and animal characters adorning the walls and ceilings.

To help patients to relax and staff to work most efficiently, “back of house” operations remain separate from the patient experience. Circulation paths permit parents to easily accompany their children throughout their visits. Technical functions and staff areas are kept out of patient view, giving staff the ability to circulate freely and helping them maintain tight schedules with maximum flexibility and reduced stress. In addition, the facility was designed and structured organically, based on staff work patterns and procedure schedules.