Austin, Texas, is one of the nation’s fastest growing cities, and its population of senior citizens is also booming—a factor that drives demand for medical care outside the city center. St. David’s Surgical Hospital comprises a four-story hospital, a separate medical office building, and a parking structure to answer this growing need in the suburbs north of downtown.

Hospital stays are typically stressful for patients and families. Research shows that daylight, access to nature, and the presence of natural materials help reduce stress and promote well-being. The project leverages this insight, providing treatment in gracious and carefully crafted spaces that delight the senses to facilitate healing.

Visitors approach through an inviting garden and landscaped courtyard that is accessible to patients to aid post-operative recovery. In the lobby, rich and tactile materials, including Hadrian Limestone, Madreperola Quartzite, eucalyptus, and leather, belie the institutional setting and invite families to pause and relax. From the bistro and dining room to corridors and waiting areas, common spaces are generously proportioned and thoughtfully detailed, so that families feel comfortable and welcome.

Patient rooms are oversized, full of natural light, and open to views of Texas Hill Country. Suites are also available, so that families can stay together on-site.

Project details
Facility name: St. David’s Surgical Hospital
Location: Austin, Texas
Completion: October 2016
Owner: St. David’s Healthcare
Total building area: 146,000 sq. ft.
Total construction cost: N/A
Cost/sq. ft.: N/A
Architecture: Page
Interiors: Page
Structural engineering: Page
Furniture: Page
General contractor: Adolfson & Peterson
GeoTech & Testing: Terracon
Civil: Bury Partners
Landscape: Bury Partners
Kitchen: Worrell Design Group
Medical equipment: Balfour Resource Group
Mechanical: Brandt Engineering
Plumbing: Brandt Engineering
Electrical: Cummings Electric