Defragging the space of machines for PT at RWJ Somerset
+ Post-Occupancy interview with Deborah Fugaro, Director of Rehab Services.
Architectural defragmentation of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset’s Physical Therapy Program improved spatial relationships and allowed for more program in a smaller space.
The Challenges:
Smaller Space + More Program
RWJ Somerset needed to make room for a new cardiology suite, which resulted in the displacement of the existing PT suite into a smaller space. The space that was available was their former Same Day Surgery Suite (SDS), and it was smaller. RWJUH Somerset’s facility leadership furthermore challenged the design team by asking them if they could help solve the problem of how to combine Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT) and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) in this new reduced area. The charge was to synthesize these three spaces into one location.
The Solutions:
I. Planning for the Machines
Intense front-end planning with the design team, PT leadership, and the equipment planner were critical contributing factors to the successful outcome of the project. Given the machine-driven nature of the project, Best Healthcare Planning played a vital role in the planning stages of the project, carefully documenting all the existing and new machines and equipment and working with the architects to assure a proper fit. Correcting relationships can result in a sense of more space.
II. Perceptual and Organizing Principles
After detailed programming and planning, the design team worked together to produce a fresh, finished environment with strong perceptual and organizing principles. Zones were defined without infringing the space with bulky walls. Balancing and invigorating the space for the clientele, who range from injured to elderly, allowed for both athletes as well as disabled seniors to co-exist in mutual comfort.
Q&A Post-Occupancy Interview with Deborah Fugaro, Director, Rehab Services at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset.
The Conclusion:
Synthesis + Spatial Efficiency
Synthesizing the programs, correcting vicinities to create better efficiencies within space, organizing the equipment in detail, integrated by design solutions that clearly define space and walkways without using walls or enclosures, are key elements to the unique success of this project.
Project Summary:
Design Team:
See also:
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