Neighborcare Health, Meridian Center for Health

Gregory Wieland, AIA (Chair) Altus Studios, Omaha

Tama Duffy Day, Gensler, Washington, DC

Rick del Monte, FAIA, BeckGroup, Dallas

Robin Guenther, FAIA, Perkins+Will, New York

John Kouletsis, AIA, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc., San Francisco

Joan L. Suchomel, AIA, Eckenhoff Saunders Architects, Chicago

Stephen Yablon, AIA, Stephen Yablon Architecture, New York

Jury comments

The siting of this building is masterful; the landscape invites clients as well as non-clients to enjoy and explore the grounds. The project is uniquely about health, gracefully including spaces for community resources that support a patient population with varying and challenging needs. A sensitive approach to mental health homeless patients led to the design of outdoor patios that can double as consult spaces; the driveway was widened to provide space for farmers markets. The project was designed as an asset and destination for the greater community, and as a good neighbor addressing the future of healthcare.

The building itself uses a contemporary language, without being trendy. The scale is humane, and the use of materials, particularly wood, gives it a tactile appeal. Sustainability is evident throughout the program, structure and site. The use of views and natural daylighting is exquisite. The photography and presentation of the project are excellent.

The jury’s key words for this project are “sweet” and “beautiful.”