Project category: New construction (completed July 2006)

Chief administrator: Peter Wright, Senior Director Planning, Development & Medical Group Operations, (802) 888-8301

Firm: MorrisSwitzer~Environments for Health, (802) 878-8841

Design team: Thomas Morris, Project Manager/Project Architect; Berglind Davis, Interiors; Jason Carney, Staff Architect

Photography: © GRHall

Total building area (sq. ft.): 10,500

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $167

Total construction cost (excluding land): $1,750,000


Mansfield Orthopaedics at Copley’s new building illustrates that in the creative balance of space, both function and style can be combined to create a healing environment. This visionary design is the result of the careful blending of classic New England elements with the functions of a modern, state-of-the-art orthopedic office.

The building is sited to offer picturesque mountain views and pedestrian access to the Copley Hospital campus. Its exterior architecture blends perfectly into the surrounding rural scenery. Upon entering the facility, patients are greeted by a waiting area with the warmth and comforts of home. The fireplace is reminiscent of a Vermont inn, creating a sense of gathering and hospitality, while the interior finishes further develop the room’s ambience of elegance and sophistication.

Beyond this, additional architectural elements were thoughtfully incorporated to not only improve the quality of service, but also the quality of life. Vaulted ceilings and square windows rotated 45 degrees are aligned to extend from a larger exterior wall in through a series of rooms, bringing natural light deep into the building. From this careful blending of architectural and interior elements, the overall design successfully captures the essence of New England traditions and bestows feelings of comfort, family, vitality, and sustainability.

Intricate details, innovation, and creativity were combined to create a therapeutic space that is sensitive, functional, and cost-effective. Since opening the doors, Mansfield Orthopaedics has proven that good healthcare design promotes comfort, interaction, quality of service and, most importantly, healing.