Case Stories

Challenge

The driving strategy behind global architectural firm HKS’ innovative building design was to provide comprehensive patient care while maintaining a harmonious aesthetic. HKS worked closely with Capital Health to incorporate patient-friendly features that promote relaxation and enhance healing. Years of research and planning shaped the design process. Al Maghazehe, President and CEO of Capital Health, noted, “We have rethought everything about the typical patient hospital experience to create an environment that promotes healing, reduces anxiety and delivers advanced medical care in a calming, comforting setting.”

Solution

In order to achieve these design goals, Array Healthcare Facilities Solutions, the interior design team, solicited Construction Specialties (CS) for the company’s well-known product lines, which incorporate healthy building materials. The designers chose Acrovyn® Doors for patient rooms and corridors on the building’s garden level and first six floors, selecting a natural-looking Amber Cherry finish. Designing for an environment that facilitates the healing process, while remaining durable and resilient, called for the integration of CS’ PVC-free Acrovyn® 4000 interior wall protection, including crash rails, corner guards and handrails, drawing from a wide selection of natural wood, stainless steel and neutral colors. In December 2012, the medical center achieved LEED® Gold certification: a staunch achievement at a time when only 27 other hospitals in the country had been able to acquire Gold or Platinum level certification. Some of the building’s LEED® elements include use of regional materials, 90% waste diversion during the construction phase, preservation of open space and light  pollution reduction, as well as efficient management of water within the building and  for landscaping purposes.