Chinook Regional Hospital, one of two major healthcare facilities serving the communities of southern Alberta, celebrates the grand opening of its new addition.
Designed by Perkins+Will, in association with Group2 Architecture, the new addition complements the existing building while creating a fresh, modern feel.
Chinook Regional Hospital is the first healthcare project in Canada to use the LEED for healthcare rating system and is targeting silver certification. Balanced with the practical concerns of a healthcare building, the design incorporates local, sustainable and healthy material choices wherever possible, promoting environmental quality and social benefits while minimizing operational costs.
Natural daylight was an important design feature. A new main entry, along with technological and materials advancements and a narrow floorplate, enabled the new addition to maximize daylighting and optimize workflow.
“Supporting patient recovery and staff well-being is our Number One priority,” says Susan Gushe, managing director at Perkins+Will’s Vancouver office. “By providing Chinook Regional Hospital with access to natural daylight and views, areas for respite and repose, and soothing and calming interiors, we aimed to reduce occupant stress and improve patient outcomes and retain staff.”
The addition allows natural light into the majority of occupied spaces through light scoops along the central spine, clerestory windows, glass floors and glazing into the various departments. The landscaped courtyard and roof terrace provides onsite respite gardens that promote healing and a connection to nature, enhancing the circadian rhythm.
Lean strategies were integrated early in the design process to improve and optimize outcomes through the delivery of an efficient and effective workflow, with shorter distances for most tasks and better sightlines for improved supervision and safety.
The new addition and renovations affected the following healthcare programs: Emergency, Day Procedures, Day Surgery, Labour and Delivery, NICU, Outpatient Services, Cancer Care, Rehabilitation, Respiratory Therapy, Day Medicine, Ortho, Education, Staff Facilities, Spiritual Care, Gift Shop and the Main Entry.
Photographer: Andrew Latreille
