Princess Margaret Cancer Centre- Space Transformation

•

Follow Following Unfollow

(with Hariri Pontarini Architects in joint venture with NORR)

University Health Network

Toronto, Canada

Type: Healthcare

Area: 45,000 sf

Completed: 2021

The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre is among the top five cancer research institutions in the world, delivering excellence in patient care, education and clinical research in the heart of downtown Toronto. Growth in the patient population and changes to the delivery of cancer care led PMCC to embark on a multi-phased 'Space Transformation' project in 2014. The intention was to modernize the facility, optimize available space and support the anticipated growth of this world-class institution. The main floor (and partial second floor) renovation prioritizes the patient experience, emphasizing that the patient is at the centre of their individual treatment plan and are partners in their own care.

A visit to any hospital can be stressful and both original entrances at PMCC were dark and uninviting. The improvements include both visual and accessibility upgrades to the Murray Street and University Avenue entrances creating a warmer approach. Once inside, patients are greeted by staffed reception desks establishing the superior level of support and care patients can expect at PMCC.

Intuitive Wayfinding The original narrow corridors between the Murray Street and University Avenue entrances have been opened up to alleviate congestion and confusion. Key patient services including the Blood Lab, Outpatient Pharmacy and Patient Education are along this open pedestrian pathway (the river). This openness is key to reducing patient wait times.

Therapeutic Design Careful selection of materials, lighting and art have significantly improved the atmosphere. Natural materials, warm lighting and thoughtfully arranged lounge seating create calm, comfortable spaces for patients to rest and relax between appointments.

Patient Education Access to information is at the heart of patient-centred care at PMCC. The Patient Education team has nearly 900 unique brochures and a library of digital resources to help guide patients through every stage of their treatment. The new space improves access to this vast wealth of information including open and accessible brochure and book displays, an expanded multi-lingual collection, a digital kiosk and work surface, and a private consult room-- all in a beautiful library-like environment.

Foundation Centre The Foundation Team has a new presence on the main floor adjacent to Patient Education. They have the unique role of supporting the research goals, development and fundraising at PMCC. The space boasts a large reception desk for ticket sales and information, areas to display fundraising initiatives, achievements and inspirational events organized by the team every year.

Blood Lab and Outpatient Pharmacy The Blood Lab and Outpatient Pharmacy are part of nearly every patient's experience at PMCC. Both have been expanded and reorganized to help reduce patient wait times by accommodating current and future patient growth. The Blood Lab includes accessible draw stations, expanded reception and waiting areas and key functional upgrades. The curved plan adds visual interest and optimizes the circulation of patients and staff. The former Outpatient Pharmacy was severely undersized and has been updated and expanded to comply with new regulations and best practices. The prescription-filling process has been re-imagined to ensure the highest standards of accuracy while increasing capacity and efficiency. The new OP Pharmacy boasts nine patient transaction stations (two of which are accessible), a private consult room and a staff break room.

Patient Lounges Intimate lounges are located throughout the main floor with one new lounge on the second floor atrium. These places allow patients and their families to find a comfortable place to wait and engage in quiet conversation. While most are located away from entrances, the lounges are adjacent to major patient spaces but separated from the path of travel by glass privacy screens and donor walls. A variety of comfortable custom seating options are available with power-integrated tables for device charging and enhanced Wi-Fi access. With three food tenants to choose from, users can grab a coffee and a bite to eat and enjoy them in these lounges.

Beyond Medicine While the importance of a highly functional renovation cannot be undervalued, the new facility goes beyond simply satisfying the technical and clinical program requirements. The new PMCC is designed to be durable, flexible and adaptable to foster a sense of community and an understanding that one is not alone in this difficult life-changing journey. Also included in the renovation is a new non-denominational Spiritual Centre (with adjacent consult room for drop-in counselling) and the revived Magic Castle (a staffed daycare) which offers a lively and light-filled play area for patients children. This project is not possible without the generous support of a community of donor partners. Recognition elements are located throughout the project enforcing the message that the community at large is supporting patients and their treatment.

Credits

Architect: Hariri Pontarini Architects in joint venture with NORR.

Photography: DoubleSpace