Kaiser Permanente, Kraemer Radiation Oncology Center

The design for this LEED Gold radiation therapy building focuses on providing a highly supportive environment which provides treatment and care of cancer patients. The challenge was to create an environment that reduces stress for member patients and families, provides the best current technological infrastructure, and is an excellent place for physicians and staff to perform their work. The design provides a calming, nature oriented experience through the use of natural light, organic forms, outdoor views to nature, soothing interior colors, and an internal “Zen Garden” which contains a vibrant living wall garden visible from the treatment areas.

Jury comments

There is a clear manifestation from concept to exterior that balances visual experience and privacy. Given the issues with linear accelerators, the idea of this building as a standalone object makes sense. The jury was impressed with the design team’s approach of introducing a garden into a concrete bunker with access to natural light.  The use of patterned glass to create translucency, offer privacy, with selective breaks in the pattern framing views to the landscape was successful.