Announcements July 23, 2021

University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute Wins AIA 2021 Healthcare Design Award

University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute

Cincinnati, Ohio

The University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute (UCGNI), one of the country’s leading treatment, research, and teaching center for complex neurological conditions, has been honored with an AIA 2021 Healthcare Design Award. Our design, informed by input from patients, caregivers, and family to respond to the needs of patients with susceptibility to nausea, dizziness, fatigue, or movement disorders, was called “truly a project that can be appropriately described as a single stroke of genius” by the AIA jury.

The design for the unique façade that prevents glare and visual disorientation was informed by research from our Human Experience (Hx) Lab.

From the innovative polyester fiber mesh façade that minimizes glare for neurological patients to the sensitive approach to the movement of patients through the institute, the AIA recognized how our design reflects the university health system’s patient-centered, humanistic delivery of healthcare. The AIA also noted how applying principles of neuro-architecture from our Human Experience (Hx) Lab improves the patient experience.

“Every day since its opening, my patients comment on how much they love and appreciate the building and the higher level of service we are able to provide,” Dr. Joseph Broderick, director, of the University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute and professor of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine.

Interior design principal, Amy Sickeler acknowledges the honor of working with a client who had a clear and strong goal that can translate words to our imagination. “The entire process of creating a home for neurological caregivers and patients was a joy to help bring to life,” she says.

Branded Environments design principal Brian Weatherford notes that the client’s goal was to create more than just waiting areas, but rather spaces that feel like home. As a result, the light-filled lobby and the public spaces offer a place to learn and connect with others through subtle “rooms” created by glass screens that celebrate Cincinnati.

Throughout the building, branding graphics were designed to showcase the culture and history of Cincinnati.

The lobby also contains a museum of Rookwood pottery, an auditorium, multipurpose rooms, and a rehab gym.

These spaces are intended to be used by the broader community to educate, gather, or practice yoga.

Our design reflects the university health system’s patient-centered, humanistic delivery of healthcare.

Every element of the design was carefully developed with considerable input from patients, families, and caregivers to improve patient experience.

Bringing together 125 faculty from 15 Centers of Excellence across the university, UCGNI is a place of belonging and comfort for patients and their caregivers. “The vision for this project, as set by Dr. Broderick, the Gardner family, and UC Health, was strong and clear,” says design principal Jerry Johnson. “That vision was the foundation for a wonderful new building that will serve patients, families, and caregivers for generations.”

"The project epitomizes the notion of purposeful and research/knowledge-driven design to improve care and outcomes." - Jury comment

University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute Wins AIA 2021 Healthcare Design Award

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