Ball Memorial Hospital required a comprehensive cancer center, centralizing medical and radiation oncology, hospice, education, and support. Modern technology and efficiency exist in an environment focused on the dignity and welfare of users. Colors, materials, lighting, and landscaping all enhance the healing mission.

The addition redefines the campus’s south border, housing the lobby, reception area, and medical oncology suite. The design is a modern interpretation of the original hospital themes. Outpatient access is convenient, with a sheltering canopy, adjacent parking, and landscaped gardens. Waiting space is warm and inviting, and ample seating is provided for families. Natural light floods from windows and clerestories. Indigenous design features include geode facing on the hearth, sycamore wood accents, and wall medallions and original artwork.

The medical oncology suite includes 14 treatment stations, south-facing windows overlooking gardens, and a modern, accessible nurses’ station. Physicians’ offices, a pharmacy, and a laboratory complete this suite. To the north, 12 exam rooms support physicians. The circulation boulevard facilitates wayfinding.


Radiation oncology features two linear accelerators—one new, one upgraded—and a new 3-D Simulator. Modern control areas serve these rooms. New patient support areas provide comfort, dignity, and enhanced care.

Other renovations augment support services—administration, counseling, spiritual support, and education. Amenities include a boutique and a multimedia library. Cancer registry and hospice facilities are to the east. The east corridor provides inpatient access.

This transformation provides a state-of-the-art oncology center, increasing service capabilities and providing a fresh, healing environment for patients and staff.

Project category: New construction & Remodel/Renovation (completed October 2002)

Chief administrator: Brent L. Batman, President, (765) 747-3111

Firm: HDR – Chicago, (773) 380-7906

Design team: Clark Miller, Project Principal; Jeff Toohey, Project Manager; Bruce Keller, Project Designer (HDR – Chicago); David Dale, Interior Designer (David Dale Designs); Gerald Ramshaw, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc.)

Photography: Tom Kessler, Kessler Photography

Total building area (sq. ft.): 11,710 (new); 22,320 (renovation)

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $270 (new); $109 (renovation)

Total construction cost (excluding land): $3,161,700 (new); $2,441,050 (renovation)