Rx for Facilities

When one of the architecture firms noted among World Architecture magazine's "Top 10 Hotel Architects" signed on to design a long-term care center for seniors, the phrase "retirement home" earned a new definition. The Concierge, more of an upscale resort than a traditional nursing home, involved the ingenious direction of Houston-based Morris Architects. The 89,000-square-foot, 96-room facility offers residential appeal with round-the-clock care, boasting amenities such as an ice cream parlor, 20-seat movie theater, beauty shop, and separate pet kennel. The facility is designed in 24-room pods with each pod containing its own dining room and living room, and was developed and operated by Concierge Care Centers Inc. of Houston.

A Healthy Outlook for June Construction
Despite the large declines in construction starts reported in May, F.W. Dodge has revealed a rebounding market, with contracting for new construction advancing 5 percent in June from a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $489.1 billion. Also reported was an increase in nonresidential building, up 11 percent to $165.8 billion, according to the report.
May reports indicated a deflated healthcare market, down 31 percent. The recent report dispels myths of a continuing slump with numbers that projected a healthier June and healthcare facility construction starts that were up 14 percent. For more information, visit www.construction.com.

A Hospital with a Mission
The boxy design and cold interiors synonymous with hospitals of the past are giving way to attractive facilities that offer color and design in addition to excellent care. St. Rose Dominican Hospital, Siena Campus in Henderson, NV, is a prime example. Designed by the 62-year-old, Dallas-based architectural planning firm HKS, the facility is reminiscent of a Catholic Spanish Mission. Designed and built to offer patient-focused care, the 350,000-square-foot St. Rose Dominican Hospital includes both inpatient and outpatient services. To increase the comfort of patients, many services are conducted at the bedside - including diagnostic, therapeutic, administrative, and clinical tasks. Ready to accommodate growth, the facility will someday support a 300-bed hospital.

Jana J. Madsen ([email protected]) is senior associate editor at Buildings magazine.