URMC 4-9200 Psychiatric Adult Bed Unit

The goal of this project was to expand Strong Memorial Hospital’s inpatient psychiatry capacity by converting the 4th floor of the R-wing, previously used as psychiatry offices, into a new 20-bed unit. To facilitate this work the project included two major enabling phases which constructed new office suites in the basement and the 5th floor of the R-wing building. Once those areas were completed, construction could begin on the 4th floor.

The new 4th floor inpatient unit includes 20 private patient rooms with their own attached toilet rooms, centralized showers, and generous social areas. Security and safety for both patients and staff are major considerations for this project—as a unit which is regulated by the Office of Mental Health, there are many guidelines for the safety of the patients, but ensuring the safety of the staff is also equally important.

Secured vestibules at each entrance, ligature resistant fixtures and accessories, good sightlines for staff, and integrated electronic monitoring are all critical components of this goal. Staff areas are centralized and secured, and circulation flows were carefully considered during design. At the same time, maintaining a welcoming environment for the patients and their visitors is also important. New meeting rooms for family groups were provided as well as opportunities for casual social interaction along the patient corridors. Modern, homey finishes and graphic elements will also help make the space feel inviting despite the security-driven features.

Big Idea

A refreshed space to continue to provide a safe and supportive unit for those who require stabilization for acute psychiatric illness in an inpatient setting