What once was a small, local hospital has evolved into a robust, thriving health system set to become one of the largest hospitals in the state. Situated next to the existing North Patient Tower on the North Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville campus, the new Green Tower expansion contains a level 1 trauma center that provides essential emergency services to meet the demands of a growing population. With design guided by the lessons learned from the pandemic, a key feature includes the ability to seamlessly convert regular patient rooms into negative pressure rooms to prevent the spread of airborne illnesses.

Through extensive research and conversations with hospital staff, the project team relied heavily on the input of physicians, nurses, and other clinicians to ensure the design optimized patient care. Rooted in their feedback, the new facility stands as a reflection of the resilience of the healthcare staff, the natural beauty of the surrounding region, and the profound community pride that brought the building to life.

The Perkins&Will team also worked with the Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) to standardize the emergency department workflow across all hospitals in the health system. The campus expansion included strategies to handle increased census as well as protection for staff and patients during seasonal sickness surges. Innovations include integration of PPE cabinetry at every exam room, linen pass-throughs, standardization for all acuity levels, increased negative air flow and exhaust capability for all rooms, and additional space and utilities for hallway beds to accommodate overflow patients during surges and disaster events. The support core is designed with half-height glass walls to maximize visibility for all staff to their team. Additionally, the interior design provides a calming and soothing atmosphere for patients and families that are experiencing stress and discomfort.

Design: Perkins&Will
MEP Engineering: HPD Engineers
Structural Engineering: Uzun+Case
Civil Engineering: Kimley-Horn
Acoustics: Merck & Hill Consultants
Photography: Jonathan Hillyer, Todd Mason, Jim Roof