FIRST LOOK: University of Vermont Medical Center’s Robert E. and Holly D. Miller Building
E4H - MorrisSwizter Environments for Health
The single-occupancy patient rooms at the new Robert E. and Holly D. Miller Building at the University of Vermont Medical Center will feature private bathrooms, space for supporting family members, and ample natural light.
E4H - MorrisSwizter Environments for Health
A multilevel glass clerestory connects the inpatient unit to the main hospital and features electrochromic glass, which is tied into the building management system. The glass can adjust to light levels, decreasing energy usage and reducing glare without compromising the view.
E4H - MorrisSwizter Environments for Health
The elevator lobby finishes were chosen to complement the main hospital lobby, drawing in elements such as wood paneling and terrazzo floors. The design also aligns with the greeter/reception desk on each patient unit, creating visual cues for navigation.
E4H - MorrisSwizter Environments for Health
Mini caregiver workstations allow staff to conduct data entry and observation while increasing privacy for patients and minimizing disruptions.
E4H - MorrisSwizter Environments for Health
The curved shape of the building creates a less imposing profile and maximizes patients’ views of Burlington, Vt., and Lake Champlain. The limestone cladding was chosen to tie the new inpatient building with the existing hospital.
The University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, Vt.) broke ground on a new $187 million inpatient bed building in June. The Robert E. and Holly D. Miller Building was approved in 2016 and is slated for completion in 2019.
The project will facilitate the medical center’s ability to ensure patient safety and quality of care, enhance the patient experience, and provide greater operational efficiencies. E4H – MorrisSwitzer Environments for Health (Boston and Williston, Vt.) has worked with the medical center for more than 25 years and is the design firm on the project.
The design process for the new Miller Building involved extensive consultation with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and facilities experts as well as community members and neighbors. The design goals of the new building are to enhance quality, privacy, and healing, while providing more room for families.
The facility will feature four inpatient floors of 32 single-occupancy rooms for a total of 128 private rooms, increasing the medical center’s private rooms from 40 to 90 percent. Each room will have a private bathroom, a medical/surgical telemetry bed, and improved monitoring capability.
Enhanced in-room technology will cut down on patient transfers, assist with infection control, and improve the patient experience by increasing privacy and reducing noise.
The Miller Building project is on target for LEED Silver certification, supporting The University of Vermont Health Network’s commitment to sustainable design and construction.
