This project consists of a two-story atrium space and a new adjacent four-level, 80,000-sq.-ft. medical office building (MOB). The MOB lobby features a consolidation of the entry points for multiple outpatient services and connects the new MOB to two existing medical office buildings.

The project goal was to create an inviting environment that welcomes patients and their families to the facility, giving them a sense of community and a memorable place to meet.

The locations of the reception desk and information kiosk are key to the space. One owner-directed goal was to have both within 15 steps of the building entrance to assist guests and to minimize their stress in determining which building they need to travel to.

A skylight allows natural light into the space, making it more dynamic as the light levels evolve and change throughout the day. It also ties two of the key design elements together—the reception desk and water feature. Coved lighting in the sweeping, curved ceiling draws the eye upward and can be seen from the drive-through as patients arrive.

Materials were selected to reflect the quality of care provided at SSM DePaul. Timeless materials including natural stone were used for the flooring and transaction counters, while maple and cherry veneers cover the information desk and feature walls. Plants were introduced to soften the environment. The two-story water feature introduces a wonderful relaxing sound and brings a piece of nature inside.


Project category: Addition (completed November 2006)

Chief administrator: Carm Moceri, Interim President, (314) 344-7208

Firm: The Lawrence Group, (314) 231-5700

Design team: Mike Schnaare, Principal-in-Charge; Gary Conrad, Project Architect; Becky Egan, Project Interior Designer; Stela Iantcheva, Interior Designer/Graphic Designer; Kevin Le, Architect/Conceptual Design and Renderings; Brent Fasbinder, Architect/Design Details

Photography: Debbie Franke Photography, Inc.

Total building area (sq. ft.): 5,827

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $378

Total construction cost (excluding land): $2,200,000