Creating a sense of belonging and community was paramount when designing the building, and drawing inspiration from the forest helped further this goal. Interior courtyards and exterior pathways offer a variety of opportunities for connecting with the nearby hills, hollows, creeks and wetlands while maintaining patient privacy and safety. And just as the trees create a symbiotic ecosystem, the various environments within evoke support and protection.
Strategically, our team organized the hospital into three zones: a space to connect with the community, an outpatient zone for patients and family, and a patient-exclusive zone. Everything was methodically planned to enhance privacy for patients while also feeling inviting to the community.