Bridgepoint Active Healthcare and its architectural partners, Stantec Architecture, KPMB Architects, HDR Architecture and Diamond Schmitt Architects, were recently recognized with a Governor General’s Medal in Architecture during a ceremony at Rideau Hall. This award is considered to be the highest recognition for architecture in the country.

The award was presented to Marian Walsh, CEO of Bridgepoint during its transformation and now associate CEO of Sinai Health System, by his Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.

“This recognition is very meaningful for all of us who had a vision to create a campus of wellness for our patients,” said Ms. Walsh, on behalf of the architects and the system. “From the very beginning, our architectural partners understood our patient-centred goals and I could not be more proud to share this achievement with them, our staff and our patients.”

The Governor General’s Medals in Architecture recognize outstanding achievement by Canadian architects in recently built projects. The awards are administered by the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Some of the principles of design for Bridgepoint Active Healthcare included maximizing natural daylight and views; using natural materials and elements to support individuals during their rehabilitation process; designing social and dining spaces that encourage interaction and good nutrition and promote self-efficacy; optimizing the therapeutic benefits of access to nature and landscape; and connecting and integrating the campus with the community.

Since it partially opened in 2013, Bridgepoint Active Healthcare has been presented with more than 18 awards. The full site opened in fall 2015, including a landscaped outdoor area for patients and staff. The 10-storey, 680,000 square foot facility features 464 patient beds in rooms that accommodate the latest equipment, provide natural light and are organized to help provide the best patient care.