Project description
This redevelopment project reshaped a historic Denver hospital site into a cohesive, next-generation healthcare campus. The new hospital spans 831,000 square feet and includes 348 patient beds, a rooftop helipad, a chapel, outdoor healing spaces, and two parking structures. The design also includes provisions for supporting medical and general office uses, retail, and open space to better connect the campus to the Uptown Healthcare District.
One of the project’s most significant challenges came from its tight urban location. The design team used the redevelopment as an opportunity to improve aging neighborhood stormwater infrastructure, upgrading underground piping and addressing long-standing drainage issues. The team also devised solutions to help the new campus operate quietly and efficiently in a busy setting.
A creative highlight of the project was salvaging and reusing valuable equipment from the existing hospital before demolition. Repurposing major items, such as a chiller and several generators, not only supported the budget but also reduced material waste.
To limit noise and disruption for hospital staff and patients, the central utility plant was placed across the street rather than attached to the main hospital. This location gave maintenance teams easy access while keeping activity away from sensitive areas of the building.
Within the hospital, the electrical systems were designed for flexibility and long-term adaptability. Patient rooms were designed in close collaboration with clinical staff, including full-scale mock-ups to fine-tune every detail. Lighting was carefully integrated into the architecture to create warm, calm, and customizable environments that support healing.
The entire project was developed in a collaborative digital environment using 3D and 4D modeling, which helped the design and construction teams visualize challenges, coordinate systems, and streamline the building process.
Guiding Principles for the Design
- Community Integration
- Comfort and Healing
- Innovation with Purpose
- Future-Ready Flexibility