Project category: New construction (completed June 2005)

Chief administrator: Kipper Latham, Administrator, (512) 697-3546

Firms: Polkinghorn Group Architects, Inc., (512) 327-4404; McFarland Architecture, (512) 288-3001

Design team: Lindsay Works, AIA, NCARB, Principal; Audrey Stevens, Project Manager; Ricardo Puemape, AIA, Project Architect (Polkinghorn Group Architects, Inc.); Kathy Stephens, Interior Design (Obrentz Design Group); Vicki Krafft, Project Coordinator (Healthcare Strategic Support); Susan McFarland, AIA, Shell Architect (McFarland Architecture)

Photography: Thomas McConnell Photography

Total building area (sq. ft.): 45,000

Construction cost/sq. ft.: Not released

Total construction cost (excluding land): Not released

The Hospital at Westlake Medical Center is located on an expansive medical office building campus in the city of Westlake Hills, Texas. The owner’s goal was to offer the latest in advanced medical technology combined with superior customer service.

The challenge of reflecting the owner’s mission was met by providing maximum functionality and efficiency in the limited space provided in the original shell office buildings. The design focused on creating a natural setting that calms fears and creates an association with premier healthcare. The nature theme was carried throughout the project with the use of materials such as bamboo, animal prints, wood, glass, and water-themed accents.

The approximately 45,000-sq.-ft. hospital is located in two three-story buildings connected on the third floor by an enclosed and environmentally controlled walkway. The site is sloping, and every floor has access to the exterior at the ground level. There is covered parking under portions of both buildings and a porte cochere at the main hospital entrance. Both buildings have one hospital and one passenger elevator to assist in the timely transportation of patients, staff, and visitors.