Medical University Hospital Authority
Ashley River Tower
The theme of renewal is reinforced throughout the project, specifically renewal of a well-located but underutilized site, renewal of the business plan for a major state institution, and renewal of the patient’s spirit that is a key contributor to overall recovery. The design of this replacement hospital acknowledges the role environment plays in healing. From planning that takes advantage of natural light and views, to product selections that use the traditional materials in new ways, to establishing a progressive image of healthcare that is rooted in an historical urban context, the hospital addresses the needs and aspirations of patients, their families, healthcare providers and administrators, and the overall community.
LOCATION: Charleston, SC
SIZE: 575,000 SF
COMPLETED: 2008
ASSOCIATE ARCHITECT: NBBJ
A Gateway to Healing
A soaring light-filled Conservatory serves as the main entry and public meeting place. The Conservatory also serves as a functional connector between the 4-story Diagnostic and Treatment building and the 7-story Patient Tower.
The 156 bed tower, with its expansive views of Charleston and the Ashley River, offers acuity adaptable state-of-the-art yet welcoming patient rooms. The lower level Patient Tower contains the Ambulatory Care Clinic and Digestive Disease Center. The D&T Building houses the Heart and Vascular Center, Surgery, Chest Pain Center, and support. The overall project also includes a 1,500 car parking structure, central energy plant, and campus infrastructure, and landscape improvements.
Given their overall performance on the second largest project ever supported by HUD the largest project in the history of MUSC, I would consider it a privilege to work with NBBJ + LS3P again in the future.
Chris N. Malanuk | Former Director of Strategic Planning at MUSC
Community-Driven Design
References to the local historic urban fabric permeate public spaces. Plant selections in the Entry Garden and Conservatory are the same as those in the walled gardens of peninsula homes. The honed bluestone floor is a refined version of the cleft bluestone of the city sidewalks. Local artisans fabricated wrought iron light fixtures and furniture providing a reference to the rich multi-cultural legacy of handcrafted gates that can be found throughout the city. By combining comfortable and familiar materials balanced with a fresh and refined image, patients and families respond with a subtle optimism that elevates the spirit and encourages healing and renewal.
Awards
Top 25 Most Beautiful Hospitals in the World; 2009 AIA South Carolina Honor Award; 2010 ASID Award, Carolinas Chapter
