On our most recent hospital visit to the Advocate Illinois Masonic Center the question of scale came up. With a new modern building connecting to the already existing hospital, the question of scale and how it will address the street and its neighbors came into play during the design phase. It is clear through its design that in more ways than one they addressed scale to its fullest extent.
Sinking down the first level below grade was a start, bringing the whole building down enough to where it doesn't seem looming within the community. Landscaping was another part of the design, creating curves that where offset from the curves of the building, thus creating an inviting pathway for cars and pedestrians along the entrance. Addressing the streetscape was another major factor that plays a role in the connection of the hospital to its surrounding neighbors. All the way around the facility, is an easy accessible passageway that leads you to a beautiful green wall that faces the neighborhood. Allowing for beautification of the community and bringing nature views to its patients.
These views that can be seen from the patient rooms where cancer patients are taking their infusions are important. It is important to give patients the opportunity to look outside, take in some vitamin D, and keep their mind off what is happening within the facility if they are having bad day. It is natural for all of us to be people watchers, or even just nature watchers. There is something about looking out a window and daydreaming that calms the soul. You are transported to another world for even just a moment. This can greatly affect a patients recovery process.
What I found intriguing was the fact the community was so concerned about the look of the exterior and how the building and landscape would address them, but did the community think about how their homes and gardens would be addressing these patients? At a glance the pink home could be an eye sore to some but to others who sit in that same room for weeks taking their infusions or treatments this pink home could become a home away from home for them. A place for their minds to wonder and curiosity to take over.
Image: Taken by Luz Upegui on an iPhone 7
Comments