Project completed by Rodriguez Park Architecture and Planning
El Centro Regional Medical Center had not received any significant upgrade for almost 20 years, leaving an extremely crowded existing facility and an eroded public image. The master planned expansion and modernization program was pursued to not only modernize the facility, but to re-establish its public image. In addition to the renovation of existing areas, new construction of 66,000 square feet included a two-story structure, Entry/Lobby building and a Central Plant.
Under the design theme, "Oasis in the Valley," the facility focused on creating a pleasant and soothing environment to promote a spirit of partnering between patients, family members and caregivers to enhance the outcome of the healing process and experience. The overall site plan was re-oriented for smoother flow of traffic around the site and within, enhanced by a richly landscaped perimeter and a giant shaded entry canopy with built-in misters to address the intensely hot summer climate.
Tilt-up construction methodology was also incorporated into the building design in order to speed up the process of creating a controlled working environment and superstructure for protection from the hot sun. The new buildings were arranged to wrap around and hide the old building appearance, establishing a new modernized look for the medical center.
