Regenerative Design in Action
The 54,000-square-foot Piedmont Wellness Center takes a holistic approach to preventative care. Its integrated design includes a variety of settings and programs, such as exercise classes, nutrition and health education, and medical fitness programs, that make it an excellent example of making healthy living exciting.
To understand how this project relates to wellbeing, Dr. Zamani and Robinson focused on the building properties through three lenses: wellness, biophilia, and community-based design. The design considers health at every square foot of its grounds. Natural elements take multiple forms, flanking the interior walls and serving as both a socializing and work out space through the stadium stairs. A giant slide runs along the stairs to create a playful atmosphere. Expansive windows provide a number of direct views to the nearby soccer fields and the Pinewood Forest dotted by an accessible hiking trail. Those taking a stroll will find art installations along the way. And for the warmer months, staff members can open floor-to-ceiling doors to open for the boot camp-style workout areas. For patients looking for more restful solutions, the facility also offers nutritional counseling and outpatient rehab services. These regenerative design strategies can affect every aspect of health, no matter where a patient is in their wellness journey.
“Of course, standardizing holistic design elements into every project is an ongoing endeavor,” says Robinson. “Our focus is to implement regenerative design with a focus on equity and sustainability, whether we’re designing hospitals, schools, or even a corporate plaza.”
