Embrace
A Community Wellness Center
Healthcare Design Studio | Drexel University
This project aims to design a space that enters around the community it serves and promotes wellness and a sense of belonging. The belief is that healthcare facilities should not only serve as places for medical treatment, but also as community hubs that foster social connection and continued support. The design was informed by the surrounding context and culture of Cobbs Creek.
The goal of this project is to create sustainable, environmentally responsive campus by making use of natural elements in materiality, and optimize nature to support patient recovery and staff wellness.
Extensive site research was performed to inform the needs of our healthcare campus. Community extends beyond neighboring blocks. The site’s location was connected to major artery networks, which extend the outreach to multiple neighborhoods.
The healthcare facility becomes welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to all ages, gender, ethnicities, and abilities. The maternal health center is supported by a cohesive wellness campus including nutritional health and wellness, and pediatric care.
Create a 'green' buffer and connect to park. Provides green network for surrounding community
Programmatic hierarchy, divided into 3 separate buildings. Identify public vs private site approach
Circular forms, soft edges, and winding pathways create a warm welcome: an embrace
Natural wood facade panels appear to blend into the landscape like a forest, with a reflective curtain wall mirroring back the green campus
Entry Lobby in main building facing center courtyard
Main lobby triage and visitor seating
Main building cafeteria seating area
Hospital room typical layout. Interior room design done by Interior Design group partner
