East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Rehab + Urgent Care


project type: healthcare

location: knoxville, tn

size: 2,200 sf + 3,300 sf

year complete: 2019

The need for East Tennessee Children’s Hospital to offer additional patient coverage in an under-supported area of Knoxville posed some of the typical challenges found in any healthcare project: intense code restrictions, functionality, durability and cleanability of design materials, and the ability to offer patient privacy and safety. With the inclusion of on-site X-ray capabilities, the facility required appropriate space for the gamma rays and proper lead protection.

Studio Four Design was enlisted to design a space that would enable East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Urgent Care to function cooperatively with a related rehabilitation therapy group. The solution incorporates shared space for the two groups to function separately yet utilize the same lobby, reception area, restrooms, and staff break room. The “race-track” clinic layout includes a central staff core used by both groups. Creative elements like rigid wall protection cut into waves offer a fun and welcoming aesthetic for children, while specific sick and well waiting areas help minimize the spread of germs.

The completed project offers a welcoming, accessible healthcare facility to effectively serve children in the North Knoxville area with cohesive branding that maintains continuity with other East Tennessee Children’s Hospital locations.