Project category: Addition (completed July 2003)

Chief administrator: Ken Archer, Chief Executive Officer, (320) 839-2502

Firm: TSP, (605) 336-1160

Design team: Kent Larsen, AIA, Principal; Larry Crane, Project Architect, Project Manager; Darla Jacobson, ASID, Interior Designer; Steve Tebben, PE, Mechanical Engineer; Tony Dwire, PE, Electrical Engineer

Photography: ©2004 Kenneth Petersen

Total building area (sq. ft.): 31,000

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $135

Total construction cost (excluding land): $4,200,000

All the elements were in place for a successful project at Ortonville Area Health Services. The hospital had recently identified several growth opportunities, including increasing market share as the competition struggled; increasing volumes in a Critical Access Hospital environment; a dedicated and integrated medical staff; and a progressive, forward-thinking board and administration. All that was missing was the facility to allow it to happen.

An antiquated facility on a restricted site prolonged the analysis and planning that ultimately led to a decision to build the first phase of a multiphase facility replacement on the existing site.

The first phase is designed to respond to the most pressing issues of improved and expanded care. Immediate issues needing attention consisted of an eight-provider physicians’ clinic; clinical and procedure space for visiting specialists; physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cardiac rehabilitation; chemotherapy imaging services, both fixed and mobile; an identifiable entrance with privacy-sensitive reception; and admitting and business office functions. Infrastructure improvements beyond the requirements of this expansion were included in this phase to minimize disruptions from future construction phases.

The project consists of a 31,000-square-foot facility linked to the existing structure, which diminished the requirements for excessive code-driven upgrades to the existing buildings. The plan was organized to allow future expansion of emergency services, surgery, and inpatient spaces to occur without significant disruption to ongoing operations. Organization within the clinic modules facilitates collaboration and sharing of procedure rooms between the physicians’ practice and the visiting specialists while maintaining their autonomy.

The color palette and materials were selected to create an inviting and comfortable environment for patients and staff. Exterior design and details echo and respect the residential nature of the neighborhood.