PROJECT CATEGORY New Construction (completed October 2000)

CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR Lyle Sheldon, President, or Bob Netherland, COO, (443) 643-3332

FIRM Mitchell Associates, Inc., (302) 594-9400

DESIGN TEAM Dan Noble (HKS Architects); Paul Glasser (formerly WR Adams); Courtney Page, Patti Damiri, Steve Yarnall (Mitchell Associates)

PHOTOGRAPHY Barry Halkin

BED CAPACITY 136

TOTAL BUILDING AREA (SQ. FT.) 225,000

TOTAL LAND AREA (ACRES) 25

TOTAL COST (EXCLUDING LAND) $90,000,000


Throughout the design process, the stated mission of the project was never forgotten: “To create a facility to house state-of-the-art medical equipment which would attract the best healthcare professionals while creating a facility that looks like anything but a hospital and thus promotes the healing process.”

The lobby is a three-story space flooded with natural light, with floors of sparkling granite, plush chairs positioned on insets of carpet and artwork of textured quilts in soft, soothing colors. The two-story water feature is made of glass and Corian®, and it doubles as a donor recognition feature. Upon entering, one feels as if one is at an upscale conference center or hotel. Patient rooms were designed with comfort and function in mind. All rooms are single, with a view of surrounding woods/nature. Millwork includes shelving for flowers and cards. Each room has a custom sleep unit, so that loved ones can stay overnight with minimal disruption to the staff

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Lighting played an important part in the success of the project. Innovative concepts were implemented in patient and staff areas to minimize eyestrain and provide focal lighting to soften the aesthetics. Indirect fixtures were used, ensuring that patients on stretchers will never have direct light shining into their eyes. Cold cathode up-lighting at caregiver stations helps highlight the circular design and provides computer-friendly lighting for the staff. Backlit custom Italian glass is the focal point for the nondenominational chapel. The cafeteria feels more like a local bistro, with a view of a fountain.