ORGANIZATIONAL RENAISSANCE

Tom Fitz, President /CEO of St. Mary’s asked MMA to create something “uplifting, comfortable and really inspiring”. Mr.Fitz asked the 200 visitors their opinion; guests responded with rousing applause. Athens Banner Herald

As is the case for many hospitals that have expanded incrementally over time, St. Mary’s found itself without any clear physical organization image. As a faithbased institution, only a design that embodied the hope the leadership and staff placed in MMA would do as this was the largest facilities program St. Mary’s had undertaken. This alone was a daunting design challenge, but not for MMA who have experience in creating unique non-institutional health care imagery. The new atrium serves as the epicenter for a 240, 000 square foot long range plan that will render the facility functionally viable for a long time to come. This solution did not even register on the radar screen of the previous Top 10 architect who was unable to gain consensus regarding the best direction to move in. The new facility creates an impressive new front from Baxter Street and is monumentally positioned to elevate St. Mary’s image into a first class caregiving organization.

Many large hospital spaces are not used as effectively as St. Mary’s new atrium. Patient traffic patterns are directed through and adjacent to the space and the Atrium will continue to serve as the main hub for continued expansion. Admissions/ Registration fronts the space with new patient elevators directly connected. The bold italianate flooring pattern is a natural wayfinder. Volunteers and coordinators have clear views of all walking and vehicular traffic.

A Renaissance in the Birth Experience

St. Mary’s needed an improved Women’s program and they needed it fast. Hospital leadership and privileged physicians stated that whoever applied for the CON first would gain the marketshare advantage. In 21 days MMA prepared detailed conceptual drawings and computer animation on which

“The docs couldn’t find anything wrong with the design.” ~ Kem Meeks OB Director the CON was based. The first budget ended up being the final budget and the hospital is now the proud owner of a facility that has taken everyone by surprise. OB’s that initially were against moving to single room care are now outspoken advocates for family oriented birthing. The design concept made it easy for those physicians who were initially against single room care to endorse the design as it allowed for a transition from LDR to LDRP as practice habits gradually changed. The physicians have also been impressed with how the design supports operational and staff efficiencies. MMA can help create an advantage for you.