Designed by HKS Architects Inc., the 15-story, 643,000-square-foot Children’s Pavilion at Children’s Hospital of Richmond in Richmond, Va., is an advanced outpatient facility dedicated to children in the region. The pavilion, built on an urban site in downtown Richmond, includes a surgery level, three levels of pediatric clinics, a faculty/research floor and seven levels of parking.

A landscaped outdoor garden with seating area—surrounded by native trees, indigenous plants, and chimes—along with interactive displays designed to engage children and hospitality-like, valet parking are some notable offerings at the new facility. The Sky Terrace (located on level five) is designed to connect with the city’s history by providing dramatic views of Richmond’s historic City Hall and, beyond that, the Virginia State Capitol building, designed by Thomas Jefferson.

The building’s community-centric design is carried from the exterior into the interior. The architecture visually connects visitors to natural elements unique to the city of Richmond. The nearby James River and its wooded surroundings inspired the design; bold colors inspired by regional wildflowers as well as large graphics and imagery taken from local natural features and landmarks are used throughout the pavilion. These elements aid with wayfinding and help create an environment that’s both calming and engaging.