Umass Medical, Marlborough Hospital

The design of this center reflects the human spirit, its relationship to light, connection to earth and sky, as well as self-reflection and solitude. The design concept weaves together three components: The Beacon, The Sanctuary, and The Oasis.

The goal of the cancer center was to create a “Beacon of Hope” for the community. The double-height lobby/reception area, with large spans of glass, extensive daylight, exposed natural wood and warm interior lighting welcomes patients and their families. Radiation oncology, a more intimate treatment, occurs in the Sanctuary, where an oculus from above illuminates the reception and waiting area, brightening the space with daylight. The Oasis seeks to connect the exterior healing garden, carved between the existing building and new cancer center, to the medical oncology infusion area for longer treatment where the passage of time is occupied with the movement of trees, birds and water as well as seasonal environmental changes.