27: Universal Patient Rooms | Palomar Medical Center

In this episode, Cherise is joined by Jenna Knudsen, AIA, LEEP AP BD+C, Managing Principal and Gina Chang, AIA, EDAC, Principal, both from CO Architects in Los Angeles, California. Jenna and Gina share their insights into their work on Palomar Medical Center in Escondido, California. Nationally recognized for its innovative approach to sustainable design, healing environments, and technical execution, Palomar Medical Center (PMC) is a 35-acre campus that includes a 360-bed acute-care hospital.

Evidence-based-design “firsts” include Universal Patient Rooms, which accommodate a variety of in-room procedures to minimize moving patients and germ exposure. Biophilic design strategies incorporate natural light in operating rooms, garden spaces at every level of the 11-story nursing tower, and green roof technology that extends the landscape and improves views from the patient rooms. To see project photos and details discussed, visit arcat.com/podcast

This project provided unique challenges and opportunities - excavation encountered bedrock but the use of rock anchors led to structural savings, the use of light tubes met a challenge of fire rating requirements, extensive research and analysis made for hospitality inspired patient rooms, and much more.

Topics Discussed:
Green Roof
Light Tube
Rock Anchors
Grab Bars

Photo Credit:
Tom Bonner/Courtesy CO Architects