VALLEYWISE NORTH PHOENIX COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC
The North Phoenix Community Health Center was designed as a prototype for future clinics across the Valley. Included are clinic space, pharmacy, lab, imaging and a family learning center. The clinic prototype was designed to operate as a true on-stage/off-stage workflow with two-door exam rooms and dedicated patient and provider hallways. Flexible exam room layouts allow for multiple exam table reconfigurations to accommodate general, pediatrics and OB/GYN.
INSPIRED DESIGN:
Durability and maintainability of the façade was identified early as a requirement to the longevity of the facility. Using a ground-face CMU veneer was a durable, efficient material that would stand the test of time. Because the CMU was not used structurally for the wall system, a typical 4x8x16 block could be turned vertical to create a unique look with a typical material. To create a seamless corner, typical bond-beams were used with one leg cut back to create a “custom” corner piece without the cost of a custom block.
THOUGHTFUL STEWARDSHIP:
Natural daylighting was implemented as a way to reduce the electric lighting needs in many of the spaces, but also serves as a health and wellness feature. Clearstory windows line the raised ceiling in the ent5rance lobby and the care team pods – these features bring light deep into the building where typical windows could not. In addition – transom windows are located in each exam room to allow borrowed light from the clerestories into the patient space.
CREATIVE TEAMWORK:
To identify the needs of the users and patients while designing the prototype, room data sheets were developed for each space in collaboration with the user groups, planning, and operations teams. Finishes, Fixtures, and equipment needs were identified and spaces were developed in plan, elevation, and 3D to determine the spatial requirements and relationships for each room. Creating standardized spaces was critical in developing a prototype that could be implemented on multiple sites and expand as needed.
ENDURING COMMITMENT:
DWL recognizes that as the County safety-net health system, Valleywise is supporting the community for years to come. Designing a space that is robust, durable, and able to grow as the community and their needs change is critical to their success as a health care provider. By creating a Pod-ular (modular pod) design, the buildings can be site adapted and spread throughout the community, grow in the future, and stand the test of time.
