The UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute (Cincinnati), a collaboration of the UC College of Medicine and UC Health, is a leading treatment, research and teaching center for complex neurological conditions. The Institute is focused on inclusive patient-centered care, with the patient considered in each component of the design. The overriding mission of the Institute is to “be a place where people will feel it is their home.”
Designed with input from an advisory committee of patients and caregivers, physicians, staff and students, the 194,000 square-foot outpatient facility brings together 125 faculty from 15 specialty areas into a new regional home for neurological care, education, and research. The facility addresses the different needs of patients with neurological conditions—from the flat floor parking garage to the exam room.
Multidisciplinary exam rooms are grouped in highly flexible pods to accommodate different patients during different times of day, with the rooms being large enough to support family and students. Exam, specialty, and therapy rooms are strategically located to reduce travel distances for patients and are designed to enhance sightlines and face-to-face communication between the patient and medical staff. Patient circulation along exterior walls help patients orient themselves within the building and the campus. Infusion treatment spaces, a rehabilitation suite, MRI imaging and an in-house pharmacy enhance the patient experience.
The unique façade is not just an architectural expression. The polyester fabric mesh façade diffuses direct light, reduces solar gain, eliminates the need for window shades and provides the building its distinctive signature aesthetic.
Project category: New construction
Chief administrator: Dr. Joseph Broderick, Director, UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute
Firm: Perkins and Will, www.perkinswill.com
Design team: Perkins and Will (architecture and interior design); Heapy Engineering (MEP, FP & technology engineering); Shell & Meyer Associates, Inc. (structural engineering); The Kleingers Group (civil engineering); Messer Construction Company (general contractor)
Total building area (sq. ft.): 194,000
Construction cost/sq. ft.: $265
Total construction cost (excluding land): $51.3 million
Completed: April 2019
