Project category: New construction & Remodel/renovation

Chief administrator: Cathy Kopy, executive director, Todd Cancer Institute

Firm: c|a Architects, www.c-aarchitects.com

Design team: Ric Hammond, AIA, ACHA, LEED AP, principal-in-charge; David Smith, AIA, project manager; Eileen Amano-Peterman, AIA, AAHID, ASID, EDAC, LEED AP ID+C, interior designer (c|a Architects); MEP engineer (P2S Engineering); Robert Curley, landscape architect (Cummings Curley & Associates); structural engineer (MHP)

Photography: 2013 Paul Turang Photography

Total building area (sq. ft.): 1,913 (new); 62,276 (renovation)

Construction cost/sq. ft.:  $234 (new and renovation)

Total construction cost (excluding land): $15 million (new and renovation)

Completion: July 2013

Long Beach Memorial Medical Center wanted to consolidate its cancer services in a patient-centered healing environment in order to better serve its patients and the community. The goal was to create a healthcare destination that enhances patient well-being, supports confidence and a sense of control, and encourages an optimistic outlook throughout cancer treatment. The result is the 64,000-square-foot Todd Cancer Institute Pavilion.

The selected location for the project allowed the pavilion to occupy two levels of an existing building. The project program includes a light-filled, two-story lobby addition; a new elevator core; two floors of integrated cancer care services; and a rooftop garden—enhancements that add to the life and vibrancy of this building within the community.

From the exterior façade to the detailed interior, the design needed to establish a distinct identity for the Todd Cancer Pavilion Institute—an open and comfortable environment that promotes holistic healing. Nature served as the inspiration for the design and this was continued with a sustainable mindset for the project. From daylighting to nature-inspired artwork every detail of this cancer center addresses the medical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients.

The Todd Cancer Pavilion Institute is about comfort and improved connections, and its new physical presence helps raise awareness in the community for its comprehensive services, supports staff attraction and retention, and provides a serene setting to promote holistic healing.