Cookeville Regional Medical Center Patient Tower Addition & Renovations

Challenged by an aging facility that was rapidly outgrowing its ability to serve patients efficiently, Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC) turned to Gresham Smith for innovative solutions. Our design integrates five decades of architectural styles, transforming an outdated and often uncomfortable environment into a patient- and family-centric facility that functions effectively as an entire unit.

126

beds

240k

square-foot renovation

unified design

Blending the Old with the New

The new 126-bed patient tower blends with the existing architectural language of the circa 1970s and 1980s bed towers. By using similar and complementary materials, a similar scale, and building on the vertical elements of the existing building, we created a contemporary addition that complements the existing campus.

Keeping Things Personal

Open and inviting on a grand scale, the main lobby boasts soothing earth tones, ample natural light and intimate areas for patients and visitors to rest. Seating is grouped on both the first and second floors to bring things down to a more personal level.

Enhancing the Patient Care Experience

At the forefront of our design was an environment that fully embraces family support. The addition replaces semi-private rooms with private, standardized rooms that can easily accommodate several family members. Far more intimate than the archetypal hospital waiting room, sub-waiting areas were located throughout the patient floors, allowing family members to stay close to their loved ones.

Bringing the Outside In

The patient tower was specifically situated to allow the majority of patient rooms to have a view of the surrounding landscaping and gardens. Located at the end of the floors, family respite areas were also designed to take advantage of natural light and surrounding vistas.

A Brand-New Identity

Design decisions were led by process, efficiency, access to natural light, and definitive distinctions between public and private spaces. The profound transformation gives the hospital the much-needed new image it desired, with its new front entrance providing clear wayfinding, and creating a far more cohesive and inviting environment for patients and visitors alike.