Gresham Smith is proud to announce that Healthcare Design Researcher Dagmar Bachmann, MID, CKBD, and Healthcare Studio Design leader Reid Cimala, AIA, will present at the 2026 Innovatrix International Healthcare Facility Design and Build Summit in Nashville, Tennessee. Held Wednesday, June 24, through Thursday, June 25, the event will feature Bachmann and Cimala sharing insights on emerging challenges and innovations shaping the future of healthcare environments.
The exclusive, second annual summit will bring together healthcare executives, architects, engineers, planners, clinical leaders and construction specialists for two days of discussion on next generation care delivery. Sessions will explore how smarter workflows, new technologies and modern design strategies are transforming patient‑centered facilities. See below for the presentation schedule:
The Soundscape of an ICU
Presented by Healthcare Design Researcher Dagmar Bachmann, MID, CKBD
Wednesday, June 24 | 2:10–2:40 p.m.
Bachmann will examine the critical role of acoustic environments in intensive care settings. Drawing on design‑thinking methods and evidence‑based research, she will outline strategies for reducing environmental stressors and improving patient and staff well‑being. The session will highlight:
- Using design‑thinking methods to identify and evaluate environmental stressors
- Understanding the acoustic environment
- Understanding evidence‑based noise mitigation strategies.
Building Consensus and Reducing Project Risks Through AI-Enhanced Storytelling
Presented by Healthcare Studio Design Leader Reid Cimala, AIA
Thursday, June 25 | 11:40 a.m.–12:10 p.m.
Cimala will discuss how AI‑driven storytelling can strengthen stakeholder engagement and reduce project uncertainty. Topics include:
- Using AI-driven storytelling to engage stakeholders effectively
- Leveraging AI to build consensus and align interests
- Reducing project risks through clear, goal-driven narratives
Smart & Lean: Prefab and Modular Construction to Save Time and Costs
Presented by Healthcare Studio Design Leader Reid Cimala, AIA
Thursday, June 25 | 3:10–3:50 p.m.
Cimala will join industry peers for a panel on the future of healthcare construction. The discussion will explore:
- Using prefabrication and modular construction to accelerate schedules and reduce labor costs
- Applying lean construction principles to minimize waste, improve coordination, and boost efficiency
- Integrating offsite and on-site methods while maintaining clinical quality, compliance, and patient safety
- Case studies showcasing hospitals that achieved cost savings and faster delivery without compromising care
