ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Foundation for Architecture and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Academy of Architecture for Health recently announced the winners of their 2010 design competition for emerging professionals.
Architect Tom Wannen, AIA, of HuntonBrady Architects in Orlando and his wife, Interior Designer Mandy Wannen, IIDA, LEED AP, of Ramski & Company in Orlando, teamed to win first place in the statewide competition with a prototype health care clinic for the homeless. The Wannens’ clinic focuses on the concept of nature’s engagement to a patient’s sense of well being. Natural daylight, native materials, exterior views and a healing garden were integrated in the design to achieve this goal.
The Florida Foundation for Architecture is embarking on a program to address the issue of access to health care through the design of a clinical facility for the treatment of medical, dental and behavioral needs of homeless individuals and families throughout the state. Solutions were sought that will address the design parameters of sustainability, flexibility, functionality and the creation of a healing environment for patients & staff within the context of Florida communities.
“Patient experience was the most important design parameter for us,” Tom explained. “The focus towards nature shields and protects Florida’s homeless population from the restless urban setting.”
Emerging professionals are defined as Architecture Students in the Florida Schools of Architecture, Associate AIA Members, and Architects licensed less than 10 yrs.
Ramski & Company, established in 1989, is a commercial Interior Design firm located in Orlando and serving clients across Florida. The studio pursues project work in the Corporate, Civic, Hospitality, Education, and Healthcare Markets.
HuntonBrady Architects is an award-winning, modern architecture, interior design and master planning firm specializing in healthcare, education, commercial office, and religious projects. The firm was founded in Central Florida in 1947 and is led by Chuck Cole, AIA, ACHA, and President.
