Project Description | Outpatient Rehabilitation Center | The modest project is the renovation of the George Washington University Hospital Rehabilitation Center. The Center provides outpatient physical and speech therapy while applying an innovative approach to the functional organization of the Outpatient Center.  An open layout was developed to encourage interaction among patients and staff members. The design features a centrally-located therapist station, providing panoramic views of the surrounding therapy area, greatly improving observation and communication between patients and therapists. Separate entrances were created for patients and staff members, both from the main reception area, which easily can be monitored by the reception staff.  As a result of the open layout, all areas of the facility are exposed to natural light provided by a continuous window façade. 

A variety of design techniques were applied to separate the different areas within the open space. The lowered ceiling at the therapist station divides the staff workstations from the therapy area, providing a moderate amount of privacy for the therapists. Various areas are differentiated through the use of finishes, colors, and materials, which also help provide a sense of orientation. Bright and fresh colors were used both energize and motivate patients on their way to recovery.

Hyperbaric Chamber and Wound Care Center

Located within the George Washington University Hospital (GWUH) separate facilities were created.  The largest suite was created for the Wound Care Outpatient Center. This suite made provisions for (3) Hyperbaric chambers for HBOT treatments, exam rooms, waiting rooms, and new ADA restrooms. Within the Outpatient Center, several other suites were created for Medical Records Storage, the Marketing Department, and the International Medicine Center, which provides health screenings for foreign nationals. Within the Center, several providers specialize in foreign languages to assist patients in communicating their needs.

Photographs | Courtesy of and with permission from Group Goetz Architects (d. 2011).