Bristol Hospital Emergency Department Addition

Bristol, Conn.

Award of Merit

Submitted By: Michael Horton Associates Inc. & Phase Zero Design

Owner: Bristol Hospital & Healthcare Group

Lead Design Firm: Phase Zero Design

General Contractor: Bismark Construction

Civil Engineer: Civil1

Structural Engineer: Michael Horton Associates Inc.

MEP Engineer: Long Consulting

Subcontractors: Martin Laviero Contractors; East Coast Wall Systems; United Steel; Partitions Inc.; Domack Restoration; Advanced Performance Glass; Zavarella Woodworking; Spectrum Floors; USA Mechanical; Ravex Electrical Systems

The 16,190-sq-ft emergency department expansion added 14 beds in 13 rooms. Combined with 7,722 sq ft of existing space, the department now has significantly expanded facilities to meet the needs of patients and staff, with a total footprint of 23,912 sq ft.

The goal was not just physical expansion but also the desire to create a space that is a “literal beacon to those who seek aid,” says the team. It also boosts professional and clinical staff functionality.

To that end, the layout of the floor through the entire department is curved millwork, forming a “complete infinity symbol.” In addition to enhancing aesthetics, the design also helps staff by fostering a natural flow to the space.

A skylight was installed in the rotunda to bring in natural light, while each patient room is strategically placed to be within sightlines of nurses and physicians. Patient rooms are also larger, providing for more privacy and more space for medical procedures.

One of the biggest challenges the project team faced was ensuring the existing emergency department could operate safely and unhindered during construction and renovation work. The team began in the conceptual design stage to plan steps to prevent potential disruptions, with a helipad fully operating throughout construction.

Weekly safety meetings were held to discuss new rules, preventative practices and equipment. There were no OSHA-recorded incidents. The $14-million project finished at budget and on schedule in 22 months.