2006 Project Innovations recipient, submitted by HMC Architects
New seismic requirements prompted Kaiser Permanente to build its Kaiser Downey Medical Center Replacement Hospital project next door to the existing Imperial Medical Offices.
The first building completed on the campus was the 4-story Medical Office Building 1.
Special Design Features Designers worked with Kaiser’s stringent templates and building standards to create a pleasing aesthetic using surface-plane changes, color, and materials. Bright colors and various forms on the exterior transform the required metal stud-and-plaster wall system. Public areas capture large quantities of natural light and display colorful patterns of finish materials.
Patient safety was also increased by the design of same-handed configurations in all clinical functions.
Design/Construction Challenge The construction team needed a design that abided by Kaiser’s new templates, but was flexible enough to accommodate future changes in healthcare services. It defined internal areas (or “bays”) to accommodate a variety of types of Kaiser department templates. This flexibility came into play during development and construction phases when building occupancy on the entire fourth floor changed and required a redesign.
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