Elevating patient-centered design

The UNC Health Surgical Hospital, completed in 2024, exemplifies the intersection of innovation, efficiency and patient-focused care. Located on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus, this 375,000-square-foot facility elevates the standard for health care design while integrating into the academic and medical community.

Part of the UNC Medical Center campus, this seven-story hospital brings cutting-edge resources and expanded capacity to meet the demands of modern health care. It includes 23 operating rooms (ORs), a hybrid OR for integrated imaging and surgical procedures, 80 intensive care beds, 56 pre- and post-op care areas and a satellite pharmacy. Many spaces can adapt to technological advancements or future challenges, ensuring that the hospital remains a cornerstone of care for years.

Central to the design is the onstage/offstage operational flow, which separates patient and public areas from clinical workflows. This innovative approach enhances privacy, reduces noise and optimizes staff efficiency. The design also sets a new benchmark for OR-to-recovery room ratios, achieving unprecedented efficiency through Lean planning exercises.

Surgery waiting area

Image credit: Albert Vecerka/Esto

Patient and family experiences were prioritized throughout the project. From arrival at the pedestrian-friendly drop-off area to the thoughtfully designed waiting spaces, the facility is welcoming and accessible. A pedestrian bridge connects the tower to adjacent parking decks, providing safe passage over busy campus traffic. Inside, daylight-filled corridors offer staff respite areas that support collaboration and well-being.

Safety and adaptability were critical design drivers. An additional emergency stairwell was incorporated to enhance evacuation protocols, ensuring the building meets the highest standards for user safety. Including a sterile processing area and advanced clinical offices further underscores the hospital’s comprehensive approach to supporting patient care.

The tower’s location reflects its significance. Positioned as the “front porch” of the UNC Medical Center campus, it integrates seamlessly with the university’s architectural master plan. Its modern design balances functionality with the aesthetic harmony of its surroundings, establishing the Surgical Hospital as a landmark on campus.

The UNC Health Surgical Hospital exemplifies how innovative design, operational excellence and patient-focused care can transform health care delivery, supporting cutting-edge medical care while also modeling community engagement and architectural integration.

Surgery suite

Image credit: Albert Vecerka/Esto

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