Pleasant T. Rowland Transplant Clinic At University Hospital, Wisconsin
The newly renovated Pleasant T. Rowland Transplant Clinic for UW Health at University Hospital in Madison, Wis., provides a new home for the organization’s renowned organ transplant program. The project aims to create a better, more streamlined experience for those involved in the process of organ transplantation and living donation.
The new 10,000-square-foot clinic, located just inside the University Hospital clinic entrance, serves adult patients who are being evaluated for or who have received an organ transplant. It also serves those who give the gift of life through living organ donation.
Flad Architects’ Madison office led the design of the project, which entailed relocating the UW Health transplant program from a lower level of the building to a new, prominent location near the hospital’s front door. The firm also redesigned the hospital entry and supporting spaces.
By consolidating a wide range of transplant services in the main entry level, the new design reduces the need for patients to travel within the hospital for tests and other services.
The patient and family experience is further enhanced throughout all stages of transplant care. For example, computers for patient education are located in every exam room, and a comfortable family lounge provides a choice in seating areas that range from private to public and provide views to the exterior.
Organ transplant experience informs hospital design
The exterior of the hospital’s redesigned entrance features a modern, welcoming approach that enhances wayfinding by incorporating a curved exterior curtain wall that provides views into the new lobby. Traffic flows are improved by delineating pedestrian zones and separating valet and patient drop-off areas. There’s an additional standalone valet station.
Highlighting the waiting area is an illuminated art installation featuring names of living organ donors and the transplant journey of Pleasant T. Rowland, whose donation made the renovation possible. The interactive design provides a searchable database allowing visitors, families, and patients the opportunity to learn more about these gifts.
Along with the living donor wall, a clean and bright design palette features neutral wall and floor colors highlighted with wood accents in key visual areas. Plus, floor-to-ceiling windows help infuse the space with hope and inspiration.
Project details for Pleasant T. Rowland Transplant Clinic at University Hospital
Location: Madison, Wis.
Completion date: January 2023
Owner: UW Health
Total building area: 23,500 sq. ft.
Total construction cost: $17 million
Cost/sq. ft.: $723
Architecture firm: Flad Architects
Interior design: Flad Architects
Interactive Media Design/Donor Wall Design: Zebradog
General contractor: JP Cullen
Engineering: IMEG (MEP), Ruekert-Mielke (civil), Flad Architects (structural)
Builder: JP Cullen
