The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) has selected the recipients of the AIA National Healthcare Design Awards program. The award program showcases the best healthcare building design and healthcare design-oriented research. Projects exhibit conceptual strengths that solve aesthetic, civic, urban, and social concerns as well as the requisite functional and sustainability concerns of a hospital.
Recipients were selected in four different categories:
Category A: Built, Less than $25 million in construction cost
Category B: Built, More than $25 million in construction cost
Category C: Unbuilt, Must be commissioned for compensation by a client with the authority and intention to build (no projects were selected in this category this year)
Category D: Innovations in Planning and Design Research, Built and Unbuilt
The following two projects were selected as recipients in Category A of the AIA National Healthcare Design Awards program.
Kaiser Permanente, Kraemer Radiation Oncology Center; Anaheim, CA
Yazdani Studio of Cannon Design
The design for this LEED Gold radiation therapy building focuses on providing a highly supportive environment which provides treatment and care of cancer patients. The challenge was to create an environment that reduces stress for patients and families, provides the best current technological infrastructure, and is an excellent space for physicians and staff to perform their work. The design approach focused on the distinct needs of cancer patients and their treatment schedules, which typically occur five days a week for five to eight consecutive weeks. The design provides a calming, nature oriented experience through the use of natural light, organic forms, outdoor views to nature, soothing interior colors, and an internal “Zen Garden” which contains a vibrant living wall garden visible from the treatment areas.
Kaiser Permanente, Kraemer Radiation Oncology Center; Anaheim, CA/Yazdani Studio of Cannon Design/© Bruce Damonte
Planned Parenthood Queens: Diane L. Max Health Center; Queens, New York
Stephen Yablon Architecture
For its first center in Queens, Planned Parenthood sought a facility that was a bold expression of its commitment to state-of-the-art care for all, provided an excellent patient experience, and welcomed one of the most diverse communities in the world. Since opening, the facility has ranked in the 99th percentile for patient satisfaction when compared to comparable hospitals. The building’s contemporary design contrasts with its brownstone neighbors, establishing itself as a welcoming and important community institution. The simply-planned, sleek, and light-filled interiors are uplifting and easy to navigate, reducing patient stress. A bold color system aids in orientation for the diverse users and brings spatial delight throughout.
Planned Parenthood Queens: Diane L. Max Health Center; Queens, New York/Stephen Yablon Architecture/© Michael Moran/OTTO Michael Moran Photography Inc.
The jury for the 2016 National Healthcare Facility Design Awards includes: Doug Hocking, AIA, LEED AP BD+C (Chair), KPF; Rosalyn Cama, FASID, EDAC, CAMA, Inc; Tatiana Guimaraes, Assoc. AIA, Perkins+Will; Anthony Haas, FAIA, FACHA, WHR Architects; David Montalba, FAIA, Montalba Architects; Sid Sanders, AIA, Houston Methodist Hospital and Kenneth Webb, AIA ACHA, LEED AP BD+C, HKS.
About The American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit www.aia.org.
