Surrey Memorial Hospital: Critical Care Tower, BC, Canada | Parkin Architects

The Surrey Memorial Hospital (SMH) Critical Care Tower in Surrey, British Columbia, is an inspirational eight-storey expansion completed to address the region's growing healthcare needs. Commissioned by the Fraser Health Authority, the project is a response to an explosive population growth in Surrey.

Designed by Parkin Architects and CEI Architecture, with EllisDon as the construction lead, the tower increased the hospital's capacity by 30%, adding 150 new beds for a total of 650. It accommodates 650 additional clinical staff and 300 support staff. The project expanded specialized care, including neonatal intensive care, stroke, and intensive care units. The NICU doubled in size and introduced Canada’s first neonatal and pediatric pharmacy. The High Acuity Unit and Intensive Care Unit were upgraded to 25 beds each.

More than 80% of patient rooms are single-occupancy to enhance privacy and infection control. Around 20% have advanced airflow systems to prevent infections. Each room includes a designated family zone with a sofa bed or recliner. Bedside dialysis plumbing on floors 5, 6, and 7 allows in-room treatment, reducing patient transfers.

The tower’s design incorporates natural materials with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and energy-efficient technologies, earning LEED Gold certification. A heliport provides direct emergency department access, reducing air ambulance transfer times.

Construction next to an active hospital required careful planning. Fast-tracking techniques minimized disruption and maintained hospital operations. The project received an Award of Merit in Buildings from the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies British Columbia (ACEC-BC) for its efficient design and advanced healthcare infrastructure.

The SMH Critical Care Tower expands the capacity of Surrey Memorial Hospital, the largest acute care facility in Fraser Health and the busiest emergency department in British Columbia.