Dozens of supporters, including doctors, nurses, and parents, gathered in a tunnel under Mary Bridge Children's Hospital to celebrate the relocation of 61 young patients to a new facility. The new hospital was recently completed by Layton Construction in partnership with Abbott Construction. During the move, the atmosphere was described as being similar to a homecoming pep rally, with workers handing out doughnuts and giving high fives to the children.
The construction of pediatric facilities involves specialized design choices intended to prioritize patient care. According to Layton Construction Manager Todd Hardcastle, these facilities often feature curved ceilings and rounded features rather than sharp corners to increase comfort for children. These custom radiuses require precise alignment between the millwork, ceilings, flooring, and base.
Security and functionality are also central to the design. Layton Vice President of Estimating Trent Isaacson stated that the team focuses on additional security for infants and minors. Furthermore, patient rooms and hallways are designed to be larger to accommodate parents, siblings, and extended family members, as well as medical equipment and providers. Whitney Walter, Layton Vice President of Healthcare, noted that these spaces must function at a high level to allow for quick movement during emergencies.
Design elements at the Kapi'olani Medical Center for Women and Children included whimsical touches like vine motifs in corridors to help children find their rooms. At the Mary Bridge project, the team used a life-size Waldo print to engage patients during construction. The use of a wide variety of colors is also a common feature in pediatric hospitals to provide a different environment for children who spend much of their lives in medical settings.
Layton Construction also manages the logistical impact of construction on patient care. While working adjacent to a NICU at Kapi'olani Medical Center, the team paused operations for 30 minutes during sensitive moments without charging the client for the delay. Whitney Walter explained that maintaining strict schedules is vital to ensure staff can train in new spaces and minimize complications during relocations.
Layton Construction, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a national general contractor that operates from 16 strategic offices. The company specializes in complex project delivery across various sectors, including healthcare. Trent Isaacson stated that the company views working on these pediatric projects as a privilege, aiming to provide beautiful spaces that allow families to focus on healing.
