Stamford Health project wins Healthcare Design Remodel/Renovation Silver Award

Stamford Health After One

October 14, 2024

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The Whittingham Pavilion Cohen NICU & Maternity Unit renovation received second place in the magazine's annual competition and will be featured in its December issue.

Stamford Hospital’s vision to create an innovative destination experience that supports mother/baby care was realized through the complete remodel/renovation of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Maternity Unit in their Whittingham Pavilion. For the NICU, increased privacy and space for patients and families were a major goal, as the existing unit was basically a ward with curtains separating patients. Our design team devised a new floor plan that provides a mix of private and semi-private bays, improving the experience for these tiny patients and their parents, where newborns can stay for weeks or even months. 

A special feature of the NICU is the use of circadian lighting throughout, playing a critical role in the developmental needs of newborns, particularly premature infants. This lighting by our Lighting Studio mimics the natural progression of sunlight, helping to regulate newborns’ sleep/wake cycles. The NICU also features a new parent and family lounge, which provides a space where they can relax, talk with other new parents, and prepare for transitioning out of the NICU.

Stamford Health Before Two
Before renovation: As seen in the photo above, the original NICU bays were small and cramped, with barely any room for family members and staff to be in the room together.
Stamford Health After Two
The new NICU bays are much more spacious, with plenty of room for parents to rest and staff members to do their work. The material palette was inspired by the nearby Atlantic ocean and its ribbon of beaches.

Within the Maternity Unit, conceptual planning efforts focused on achieving operational efficiencies and optimizing patient care within the limited existing footprint. The redesigned patient rooms accommodate family members and foster engagement in patient care. By integrating a spa-like, hospitality-inspired aesthetic, the design instills a sense of calm from the moment expectant mothers and their families enter the building and at every touchpoint along the way. 

Stamford Health Four
Soft curves and materials conveying a soothing, nurturing environment were used throughout the maternity unit.

The Healthcare Design Remodel/Renovation Competition is an annual contest that identifies the best single space remodels or renovations. Only spaces within a larger healthcare facility/campus or a standalone facility dedicated to one specialty or service line are considered. CannonDesign has received recognition in this program in previous years:

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