NORTH WING HOSPITAL EXPANSION, KAISER PERMANENTE
Santa Rosa, CA | Complete
Blending comfort and care: Design of the North Wing reflects a clean, efficient and competent level of care, while creating patient comfort and accommodation of family members. Materials that stand up to the rigorous standards for patient areas are used creatively to designate patient zones (warm and friendly) and staff zones (neutral and professional). Floor patterns and artwork “niches” support the “way finding” patterns of the hospital.
An inviting interior that will function over time: Color schemes are built around a common palette of materials with each floor was customized in a way that supports the “personality” of various departments such as neo-natal or ICU. Accent colors are integrated in materials that are subject to more frequent replacement (paint and fabrics) while long-wearing materials such as flooring and cabinet finishes are built primarily with a neutral palette that will stand the test of time and allow the interior to be “refreshed” without a big investment.
Sustainable solutions: People with compromised immune systems are especially susceptible to airborne toxins, molds and germs. Materials were selected with careful attention paid to EBD (Evidence Based Design) to meet the stringent needs in a hospital environment. This research, combined with the client’s commitment to Sustainability resulted in use of carpet tile with high-performance backing, natural rubber flooring, low VOC paint and formaldehyde-free building materials. Fabrics that are easily cleaned and yet avoid use of petroleum-based materials were readily used, particularly when recycled content was an option.