American British Cowdray Women's and Children's Center | Enrique Greenwell

The site shape, semicircular on one end and rectilinear on the other defined the basic geometries to follow; this enabled the concept to be developed around the curve, other fundamentals, such as the helipad, parking and access drives represented the site boundary. The existing facility has a character identified by two distinct volumes, the main Hospital where solids dominate openings, and a 6 story reflective-glass Medical Office Building. This diametrically opposed architectural language was inspiration for creating a transitional connector between both elements; the use of existing materials enabled a dialogue and communion between the Women’s Center and existing MOB. Curtain wall was used according to sun exposure; as a response a passive solar system was employed consisting of sunshades that allow views out while protecting the glass. As the curved façade reached its end it relinquished its geometry to the straight line, clean simple angles were used in conjunction with warm materials such as Tepeji marble to give a welcoming feel. This is where the entrance is located, comprised of a cylinder that houses the waiting areas, enclosed by a glazed surface that frames views of a sculpture garden; it also serves as the connector to the Main Hospital.