Submitted by: HuntonBrady Architects (Orlando, Fla.)

This healthcare project was an interior and exterior transformation of Lakeland Regional Health Hollis Cancer Center (Lakeland, Fla.), originally built in 2003.  The program included a comprehensive chemotherapy suite with 40 infusion stations, radiation oncology expansion (one linear accelerator), a new 250-seat teaching auditorium, and complete renovation of public and waiting areas, entrances, and enhanced surface parking. In total, the project consisted of 9,684 square feet of renovations and 21,460 square feet of new construction. Utilizing evidence-based healthcare design practices, the new facility is a place of hope and healing for patients and their families.

The architecture of the north expansion nests seamlessly against the exterior landscape: a beautiful Florida scene with mature oak trees and a pristine lake.  The design of a lakeside garden and outdoor terrace complement the building by utilizing the same fluid geometries. A cantilevered outdoor terrace preserves the roots of existing mature oak trees and allows for events to be held outside and serves as an extension to the prefunction area for a new auditorium. The 250-seat auditorium anchors the building and holds a strong architectural presence of the cancer center on the city’s main thoroughfare, emphasizing academic and medical excellence with continued community connection.

The interior architecture and design transforms the patient experience with bright, modern spaces, views to nature, and natural light. The central lobby and promenade is washed with daylight from existing clerestory windows above. Without direct views to the exterior in this area, furniture groupings, light neutral colors, and enlarged photography of local flower species support the garden court concept developed for this space. Prefunction and infusion spaces offer lakefront views and were therefore designed as an extension of the grassy water’s edge, featuring cool colors with warm wood accents and restful images of water to further enhance the healing environment for patients.

Project category: New construction and remodel/renovation

Chief administrator: Elaine C. Thompson, PhD, CEO

Firm: HuntonBrady Architects, www.huntonbrady.com

Design team: HuntonBrady Architects (architect, interior designer); Rodda Construction (construction manager); Furr & Wegman Architects (auditorium interior architect); TLC Engineering for Architecture (MEP engineer); McElroy Engineering (structural engineer); Chastain Skillman (civil engineer); Siebein Associates (acoustical designer)

Total building area (sq. ft.): 31,114

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $295

Total construction cost (excluding land): $9.2 million

Completed: March 2016