West Virginia University Medicine Children’s Hospital
Any Children’s Hospital serves the most vulnerable of our population: premature babies struggling to survive entry into the world, kids encumbered with challenging diseases that threaten to cut their lives short, and ordinary sons and daughters who require medical assistance to get back to being just kids. This Children’s Hospital prioritizes the wellbeing of traveling families, long-term patients, and stressed caregivers. In response to parent feedback, customizable LEDs were integrated into patient rooms to provide a sense of control. A neighborhood layout makes apparent the proximity of the nurse to reduce family stress. The top floor is dedicated to the Family Resource Center, where families, friends, and patients can “escape” to relax, enjoy a sit-down meal, or do some work. The design recognizes that caring for sick children can be emotionally draining. It is vital that both staff and families have spaces to recharge within the hospital.
Details
Category: Large Architecture
Architecture Firm: IKM Architecture
Project Team: John Schrott, AIA, ACHA, EDAC; Matt Hansen, AIA, NCARB; Mindy Coblentz, AIA, LEED AP BD+C; Sam Smelko, AIA, LEED AP BD+C; Lisa Granger, NCIDQ, LEED ID+C, CHID, EDAC; Michele Kunkel, LEED AP, NCARB; Whitney Livsey, NCIDQ, Associate IIDA, LEED AP ID+C; Carrie DiFiore, LEED AP; Steve Stauffer; Greg Coni, AIA, CPHC; Angela Ranalli
Client: West Virginia University Medicine
Contractor: Yates Construction, Dan Meadows - Construction Manager, General Contractor, Cost Estimator
Engineers: CJL Engineering, Adam Hale - Mechanical and Electrical Engineer; Claitman Engineering Associates, Corey Bierer - Plumbing Engineer and Fire Protection; Atlantic Engineering Services; Gil Taylor - Structural Engineer; The Thrasher Group, Nicole Jones - Civil Engineer
Photographer: Adam Warner, IKM Architecture
Additional Information
LAM Partners, Steve Iski – Lighting Design
Swath Design, Greg Lange – Experiential Graphic, Wayfinding, and Signage Design