The University of New Mexico’s Cancer Research and Treatment Center II (UNMCRTC) provides new state-of-the-art facilities for outpatient cancer treatment, cancer education, and cancer program administration. The project’s “patient first” concept and design solution are twofold:
First (pragmatically) the objective was to create a highly functional and technologically state-of-the-art facility that would promote efficient patient care and high staff performance. This concept drove the design of a five level facility comprised of simple and flexible floor plans that organize specialty clinics, treatment modalities, and team areas to optimize efficiency and promote the sharing of ideas toward the best patient care strategies.
Second (on a more emotional level), the vision was to create an inviting and uplifting-health spa/hospitality-like environment that would encourage wellness and hope in a language sensitive to New Mexico’s unique tri-cultural patient base. This concept drove the design of a network of public space (circulation and waiting areas) that engages the outdoors and connects patients and staff to the site’s unique nearby and distant surroundings. Catering to the concept of nature’s healing qualities. Outdoor spaces offer themselves for quiet contemplation / meditation or group gatherings. The penthouse of the facility is dedicated to chemotherapy patients, with full ‘window-wall’ glazing to the north that showcases spectacular views of the Sandia Mountains and surrounding environment. Patient areas (exam and treatment rooms) were designed to respond to the diversity of patients and their families. A design palate that emphasizes natural materials, abundant daylight, mountain views, and cultural references reinforces the concept and distances this facility from the stereotype of institutional healthcare.
Associated Architectural Firm: VOA Associates, Inc.
