The King’s Daughters Medical Center (KDMC) Emergency Department renovation and expansion project goal was to improve patient care, operational efficiency and staff workflow. The project introduced several innovative design elements including an airport-style security entrance, a triage-first model with no reception desk, and dedicated zones for behavioral health and low-acuity care. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) triage bays, mobile supply carts and a results waiting area were also introduced to streamline care delivery.
The interior design was guided by a vision of unification, clarity and calmness, transforming a previously disjointed campus into a cohesive and welcoming environment. A key feature was the “yellow brick road,” a darker porcelain tile path that intuitively guides visitors through the facility. Curved soffits, walls and strategic lighting enhanced wayfinding, while soft blues, warm wood tones and natural light created a soothing, non-clinical atmosphere. Waiting areas were designed with privacy in mind, and a centrally located coffee shop served as a social hub for visitors and the community.
Operationally, the project incorporated Lean methodology, including flow mapping for patients, staff and materials. A new elevator bank improved transport to imaging and surgery, and a discharge lounge helped reduce ED congestion. Staff experience was prioritized through efficient spatial planning, off-stage corridors and teamwork zones. Materials were selected for safety and sustainability, including slip-resistant flooring and locally sourced products.
Campus-wide improvements included a new public concourse connecting major hospital areas, improving wayfinding and access to amenities. The ED was designed with future expansion in mind, supporting a broader master plan to modernize the hospital. A post-occupancy evaluation is planned to assess the effectiveness of these strategies in real-world use.
Photos: ©Jeremiah Hull
