As the first building in Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s new master plan, the Center for Advanced Pediatrics sets the stage for future development while acting as an anchor to house multiple pediatric subspecialties in a new 265,000-square-foot facility in Atlanta. It was designed by EYP Architecture & Engineering (interior architect) and HKS Inc. (exterior architect).

Based on the positive healing effects of nature, the design team incorporated a “nurture through nature” theme throughout the eight-story facility, with ample daylight, views, and access to a garden. Inspired by the abundant tree canopies in the metro Atlanta area, designers used wood panels up the wall and wrapping on the ceiling to create a “tree canopy” in the public spaces, adding warmth and texture to enhance the patient experience.

Special attention was also paid to wayfinding to help reduce family stress and ensure that patients arrive on time for appointments. The entrances to each clinic neighborhood are slightly canted and highlighted with a bright accent color, reinforcing key destinations. Furniture and fabrics correspond with the color of each neighborhood and help families navigate from clinic to clinic.

An expansive garden, which can be viewed from all clinic waiting areas, is an accessible and welcoming space for children and families who come for outpatient services. Special features throughout the garden invite exploration and discovery, including a biophilia-inspired water feature along the walking path.

Project details:

Facility Name: Center for Advanced Pediatrics

Location: Atlanta

Completion date: July 2018

Owner: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Total building area: 265,000 sq. ft.

Total construction cost: $90 million

Cost/sq. ft.: $339.62

Interior architect: EYP Architecture & Engineering (interior design, medical planning, wayfinding/environmental graphics, furniture selection and specification)

Exterior architect: HKS, Inc. (core and shell)Contracting: Brasfield & Gorrie

Engineering: Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. (Civil engineer), Newcomb & Boyd (MEP Engineering),

Uzun + Case, LLC (structural engineering), HGOR (landscape architect)

Working Buildings (sustainability consultant, commissioning authority)

Construction: Brasfield & Gorrie