BCRA Design

MultiCare presented the challenge; build a facility focused on the health care needs of women like never before. The overarching goal being that one healthcare facility could care for women for their entire lifespan – “from birth to death.” 

Rooted in evidence based design

BCRA first joined MultiCare to tour facilities across the nation to better understand how a facility could be sensitive to women’s health care needs. Rooted in this desire, Gig Harbor MultiCare offers the utmost in privacy, inviting aesthetics and a design that strives to cater to the psychological and emotional needs of a healing and thriving patient. From birth to pediatrics, cancer and heart care, as well as a full ambulatory surgical center, the facility hosts nine medical services of outpatient care.

Responding to the environment of the Pacific Northwest, the lodge-like feel is evoked with heavy timber truss supports, stone finishes and wood flooring. The complex combines many of the latest concepts of evidence-based and sustainable design. The center also provides vibrant and healthy environments for both patients and staff members and offers personal attention from concierge-style reception areas.

Overcoming challenges

The work was achieved though an integrated design process between BCRA’s architects, interior designers, land use and civil planners. Design challenges included two wells on site as well as multiple stakeholder interest in the retention of wetlands and trees in the area. BCRA’s land use planners were instrumental for enabling site development.  Before the site within the quaint town of Gig Harbor had been selected, BCRA worked with Washington State’s Department of Ecology, along with the city of Gig Harbor and the Department of Health, to secure council approval and master user permits.

A community heals together

As the scope of the project evolved, an organic partnership formed with the YMCA of Pierce County that had the joint value of serving each other and the community. Community outreach programs consisting of fitness training and a multipurpose educational center allowed for an open-concept approach that enabled residents of the community to gather and connect. Today, Gig Harbor MultiCare is thriving health care facility with deep-rooted evidence-based design that strives to heal the entire person.