The Saunders Center for Orthopaedics and Physical Performance redefines outpatient care by transforming a dormant Sears department store into a vibrant, state-of-the-art healthcare hub. Seamlessly blending repurposed retail space with new construction, the center provides an inviting environment that prioritizes patient accessibility, comfort, and healing. This groundbreaking adaptive reuse project exemplifies the union of innovative medical design and community-focused care, setting a new standard for healthcare delivery in the Northeast.
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at-a-glanceThe project sought to address the growing regional demand for orthopaedic care by reimagining underutilized retail space as a cutting-edge medical facility. Leveraging an adaptive reuse model, it aimed to deliver accessible, patient-centered care while reducing costs and fostering equity for underserved populations.
The project required repurposing the existing Sears anchor store as well as to carve out space for courtyards, daylight, and new tower construction.
SLAM solved the challenge by transforming the existing Sears building into a 372,420 SF healthcare facility that integrates 210,000 SF of repurposed space with 120,000 SF of new construction. This approach not only minimized costs and timelines, but also created an accessible, intuitive, and patient-focused environment aligned with the client’s specific goals.
The design incorporates abundant natural light, thoughtfully planned rehabilitation spaces, and accessible amenities, creating an environment that makes healthcare calm and approachable.
Situated in a familiar suburban mall, the center ensures easy access by car and public transportation. Sweeping canopies seamlessly integrate with the mall, promoting equity and a welcoming patient experience.
By repurposing the mall’s roof and structure, the team saved nearly a year of construction time, cut costs by 10%, and transformed the institute into a sleek, curvilinear form.
SLAM leveraged the flexibility of the existing Sears structure, with its open column grid and high ceilings, to seamlessly accommodate high-tech medical spaces like operating rooms and imaging suites.
A seamless, efficient environment for care is seen in the thoughtfully designed treatment bays that prioritize patient privacy, accessibility, and workflow.
A cohesive and inviting environment with a spacious inner courtyard floods interior spaces with natural light, while incorporating dynamic features, like a track, to emphasize movement and encourage activity.
The Saunders Center has revolutionized outpatient care in the region, dramatically increasing access to advanced orthopaedic services in an inviting and accessible setting. It has not only enhanced patient experiences and outcomes, but also revitalized a suburban mall, contributing to community health and economic sustainability.
The facility blends innovative medical technology with thoughtful, patient-centered design, housed in a striking, curvilinear form that reflects both modernity and approachability, all while prioritizing environmental and financial sustainability.
The ambulatory surgery center includes eight advanced operating rooms, featuring six Cleansuite ORs, one Clean Cube, and one Avidicare OR, ensuring cutting-edge surgical precision and safety.
The center features 53,400 SF of therapy space, including two therapy pools, two sports therapy gyms, and a specialized hand therapy gym, designed to support comprehensive rehabilitation.
The CHAMPP Gym (Center for Human Athleticism and Musculoskeletal Performance and Prevention) is a cutting-edge facility focused on injury prevention, performance training, nutrition, and academic support for student athletes.
Designed for movement-based physical therapy and athletic training, this dynamic space features a bright, open layout with skylights and vibrant accents, promoting energy and recovery through natural light and functional design.
Flowing ceiling waves and a bold graphic wall transform this light-filled public corridor into an inviting and intuitive path for visitors.
A calming waiting area combines warm wood accents, geometric wall textures, and comfortable seating to create a welcoming and soothing space for patients and families.
This clinical sub-waiting area is designed for patient queuing and privacy, featuring vibrant blue accents, flowing graphic elements, and modern finishes that create a calming and efficient environment.
This expansive public waiting area, adjoining the courtyard, features floor-to-ceiling windows, undulating ceiling forms, and comfortable seating, creating a bright, inviting space that fosters relaxation and a connection to the outdoors.
The Saunders Center for Orthopaedics and Physical Performance has been tremendously well-received by patients. The location is known to most people in the region, and its previous role as a retail site means that accessibility is tremendous. The design principles employed were focused on patients with mobility challenges, and I consistently hear from patients how much more manageable this facility is for them than our previous office locations.
LEED Silver Target
2024 Best Project in the Health Care category
by Engineering News-Record New York
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