Designing a Healthcare Facility From the Inside Out
The American Health Network Medical Office Design project demonstrates how thoughtful architecture and interior planning can create a healthcare environment that supports both patients and medical professionals. Completed in 2002, the project introduced a modern medical office building within the Eagle Highlands Office Park, combining architecture, interiors, and tenant development into one integrated design solution.
Commissioned by Westar Construction & Development, Inc., the building was developed around the needs of its main tenant, American Health Network. The design process began from the inside out, allowing the clinical requirements and workflow needs to shape the overall building form.
The facility includes two primary care clinical areas along with essential support spaces such as an x-ray suite, laboratory, procedure rooms, and administrative offices. The remaining areas were designed as flexible medical office tenant spaces, allowing the building to adapt to future healthcare needs.
From the exterior form to the interior experience, every design decision focused on creating a professional, efficient, and welcoming healthcare environment.
A Building Designed Around Function and Identity
The exterior design creates a strong architectural identity while responding to the practical needs of a medical facility. The two-story steel frame building combines EIFS, porcelain tile, and brick veneer to create a balanced composition of colour, texture, and material contrast.
The combination of materials helps break the building into smaller visual sections, creating a more approachable scale. Variations in window sizes and spacing add character to the north and south wings while giving each section a distinct identity.
A curved central section provides the building with a sculptural quality and becomes a defining feature of the overall design. This curved form creates visual movement and connects the exterior architecture with the interior experience.
The custom curved cantilevered entrance canopy adds a modern and high-tech feel while creating a clear and welcoming arrival point for patients and visitors.
Creating an Experience Through Interior Architecture
Inside the facility, the design continues the building’s modern architectural language through a carefully planned interior environment. A dramatic two-story atrium lobby creates a central gathering space that immediately establishes a sense of openness and connection.
The interior atrium features a monumental staircase and curved balcony, creating a strong visual focal point while improving circulation throughout the building. The curved ceiling design reflects the exterior parapet, creating continuity between the inside and outside of the facility.
Interior finishes were selected to reinforce the building’s identity. Porcelain tile from the exterior design was carried into the interior spaces, while thin-set ceramic tile, upgraded carpet, and vinyl wall coverings create a refined and durable healthcare environment.
These materials provide a balance between professional performance and patient comfort, ensuring the space feels welcoming while meeting the demands of a busy medical facility.
Planning Flexible Spaces for Modern Healthcare
The building’s interior layout reflects a careful understanding of healthcare operations. Clinical areas, support spaces, and tenant offices were organised to improve workflow and create efficient movement between departments.
By developing the building around the needs of American Health Network, the project created spaces that support both current operations and future flexibility. The medical office tenant areas provide opportunities for additional healthcare services while maintaining a consistent design approach throughout the building.
The integration of architecture, interior design, and tenant development allowed every part of the facility to work together as one complete healthcare environment.
Creating a Lasting Healthcare Landmark
The American Health Network Medical Office Design project shows how architecture can transform healthcare spaces into environments that support efficiency, comfort, and connection. Through thoughtful planning, innovative materials, and a strong focus on user experience, the building provides a lasting foundation for medical care.
From its sculptural exterior form to its welcoming atrium interior, every element contributes to a healthcare facility that feels modern, functional, and distinctive.
At Fortune Architecture & Design, projects like this demonstrate the importance of designing spaces that respond to both practical needs and human experiences. By combining architectural vision with careful planning, healthcare facilities can become environments that serve communities for generations.
Leave a Reply