Martha's Vineyard Hospital
The Challenge
Martha’s Vineyard Hospital was in dire need of an update. Aging and inefficient, the island’s only hospital lacked the capacity for mechanical and electrical improvements, used outdated technology, and experienced code issues. Departments were spread across the campus, causing staff to rush care to stay on schedule when working in several capacities.
A state-of-the-art addition was planned to replace the hospital’s clinical areas. Before design even began, the surrounding campus posed a challenge, nestled amidst wetlands and a salt marsh, with island cottages sitting feet away — all encompassed by the Atlantic Ocean. Construction needed to be seamless while maintaining full operation of the existing hospital and attached nursing home and staying flexible to a fluctuating population of full-time residents and tourists.
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Client
Martha's Vineyard Hospital
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Location
Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts
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Size
101,430 square feet
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Distinguishing Features
- First LEED Gold hospital in Massachusetts
- Rooftop healing garden
- Designed using Plantree model of care
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Awards
Building of America Network Gold Medal
AIA Middle TN Citation Award
LEED Gold
Healthcare Design Magazine Architectural Showcase
Photo courtesy of Mass General Brigham
Photo courtesy of Mass General Brigham
The Design Solution
TMP's compact, two-story layout with "right-sized" departments made it easier for staff to assist one another during busy seasons. We placed support areas in centralized locations to cut down on long walks, giving caregivers more quality time at bedside. On the second floor, patients can heal in a calming atmosphere, with large windows offering peaceful views of the ocean, harbor, lagoons, or gardens.
Because environmental impact was a shared priority for the community and donors, we collaborated with the entire project team to achieve LEED Gold status. This made the hospital the first in the state and only the ninth hospital in the country to do so. Bio-retention basins, a vegetative roof, indigenous landscaping, solar photovoltaic roof panels, use of recycled materials, and more all played a role in achieving LEED Gold.
Following the patient-centered Planetree model, the hospital feels more than a place of wellness versus just a clinical facility. It features a health resource library and healing gardens that are shared with the neighboring nursing home.
We ensured the building's exterior captured the charm of Martha's Vineyard while using resilient materials that were able to withstand weather events and required low maintenance.
The Design Impact
Before the addition, residents and visitors were often forced to travel outside of Martha’s Vineyard for care. Now, they have easy access to excellent healthcare, the latest technology, and a serene environment that promotes healing.
Hospital staff handle seasonal fluctuations with ease, and thanks to thoughtful environmental considerations, the facility will serve the island for many decades.
Photo courtesy of Mass General Brigham
