Balancing Growth and Patient Experience with Minimal Disruption

The expansion of Horizon Medical Center in Dickson, Tennessee presented a unique challenge due to its aging ICU unit, that has been consistently over capacity for several decades and a campus with limited available space. The key was to achieve a careful balance between optimizing growth opportunities and minimizing disruptions to ongoing hospital operations. By shaping the 14-bed ICU addition to form a new interior courtyard, the amount of demolition was minimized. This strategic design choice helped minimize the need for extensive demolition while ensuring that occupants would have continued access to natural light. The design of the facade drew inspiration from the original facility, incorporating elements such as oversized cornices and prominent vertical elements, emphasizing the existing mid-century design.