University Orthopaedic Institute

The Cherokee Farm Orthopedic Facility at the University of Tennessee Research Park is a blend of advanced medical services and efficient design. The ground floor is dedicated to orthopedic surgery. Surgery rooms are located on the north side for optimal functionality, while the south side offers a light-filled waiting area with views of Cherokee Farms. This floor also houses essential pre- and post-operative rooms, surrounded by nurses' stations for effective patient care. The second floor focuses on patient consultations. Exam rooms are strategically close to nurses' stations for easy access. Waiting areas, primarily on the south side, provide a relaxing environment, thanks to ample natural light. The third floor is currently an open space that can be tailored to future tenant’s needs. Furthermore, by placing parking underneath the building, the project reduces stormwater runoff, minimizing the challenges associated with managing permeable surfaces.

From the project's inception, the design team actively engaged with stakeholders to clearly define the design criteria and overarching strategies. This collaborative approach guaranteed a unified vision and direction for the project. Given its location on Cherokee Farms, adherence to the University of Tennessee's sustainability guidelines was paramount, and the team ensured every design decision aligned with these standards. In collaboration with the client, the team seamlessly integrated design elements from previous projects. Notably, features like the ellipse entrance were introduced, providing not only a touch of familiarity but also establishing a consistent and distinctive branding element throughout the project's entirety. Furthermore, prioritizing patient safety and operational efficiency, the design incorporated Indigo Clean technology in the operating rooms, significantly reducing bacterial presence and cutting down on cleaning waste.

Framework for Design Excellence

Design for Integration
- The design team engaged with project stakeholders from the outset to clearly identify and establish design criteria and strategies, ensuring a cohesive vision and direction for the project.
- Since the project is situated on Cherokee Farms, the design team adhered to the University of Tennessee's sustainability criteria.
- The design team collaborated with the client to seamlessly incorporate design elements from prior projects, establishing a distinctive and consistent branding element throughout the project.

Design for Equitable Communities
- Utilized visualization walkthroughs during client engagement sessions to ensure the design was precisely aligned with the stakeholders' vision and expectations.
- Employee break areas are generous with daylight and views.

Design for Ecosystems
- 28.8% of the finished site supports vegetation; 16.5% of the finished site incorporates native plants that support native or migratory animal species and pollinators.
- The project emphasized ecological responsibility and biodiversity by incorporating native plants and species within the site design, supporting local habitats and enhancing the environmental quality of the area.

Design for Water
- Used a temporary sprinkler system for two years to establish initial plant growth.
- By situating the parking underneath the building, stormwater runoff is minimized, reducing the need for extensive management of permeable surfaces.

Design for Energy
- Designed public areas and corridors to harness maximum daylight access. The integration of interior glass partitions and light-toned finishes enhances daylight penetration, reducing dependency on artificial lighting and conserving energy.
- Incorporated High Solar Reflective Index roofing materials to mitigate the urban heat island effect and decrease cooling energy demand.
- Used “Heat Mirror” glazing, which has a thermal film suspended in the middle of an insulated glazing unit, to reduce the solar heat gain around the rotunda.

Design for Well-Being
- Interior design was enhanced by the warmth of wood accents and the presence of live plants in waiting rooms and lobbies, promoting a calm environment for occupants.
- Waiting areas provide an abundance of natural light, fostering a sense of well-being and reducing eye strain for occupants.
- Used Indigo Clean technology in operating rooms to reduce bacteria and minimize cleaning waste.
- Clinic layout designed to reduce infection risks.

Design for Resources
- Exterior design highlights brick and steel details crafted by local artisans.
- The landscape and site design are crafted to weave into and complement the existing campus aesthetics and layout.

Design for Change
- The third floor is designed as a flexible open space, allowing for future adaptations to meet evolving tenant needs.

Design for Discovery
- The building's orientation is strategically planned to not only preserve but also enhance pedestrian pathways, fostering greater opportunities for community recreation and exploration.

Design for Economy
- The project prioritizes locally sourced materials, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact while supporting the regional economy and craftsmen.