Del Sol Medical Center, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
El Paso, TX

Status

Completed 2008

Architect

Craig Puccetti, Lawrence Group Architects

Scope of Services

In collaboration with the architectural team and the NICU staff, the 21-bed unit was structured around five pods, allowing for the observation and care of several infants at a time while minimizing disruptions. With the addition of four private rooms, the staff is able to support family-centered care with the assistance of an integrated monitoring system.

• Located in El Paso, Texas, abundant natural light floods the unit and aids in the development of a regular sleep and wake cycles. Overhead lighting is baffled and dimmable to minimize glare.
• All finish materials were selected to minimize sensory disruptions, including VOC emissions, and maximize infection control. Seam-welded rubber flooring provides comfort under foot as well as sound attenuation, and aids infection-control.
• A soothing color scheme of blues, sea foam greens, and soft sand underscores the water theme, and the gentle curvilinear floor and ceiling elements soften the environment.
• Vinyl film "etched" glass panels illustrating an underwater motif allow for visibility through the unit, and provide soft screening.

Realizing the impact design decisions have on infants’ outcomes, the solution reflects evidence-based design and clinical experience to nurture vulnerable babies and their families.