MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — AECOM’s design for the 500,000-square-foot expansion of American Hospital Dubai was recognized with a First Place award in the Healthcare category in the International Interior Design Association Northland chapter FAB Awards.
As the centerpiece of the campus, the new seven-level inpatient bed tower reorients the hospital and provides a new front door to the campus via a dramatic atrium. It features more than 200 private patient rooms, surgery, pre- and post-operative recovery, a 16-bed intensive care unit, a neonatal intensive care unit, a cancer program (including radiation oncology) and two underground parking levels. 
A concourse passageway at the ground floor connects the main entry atrium of the new bed tower with the existing hospital, while renovation and expansion of the existing dining area accommodates an increase in patients, staff and visitors. The project more than doubles the bed count of the existing facility.
The design needed to reflect the hospital’s high-quality American standard of care, in a hospitality-inspired environment that would appeal to both local and international clientele.
“We were charged with designing interior spaces that reflected a luxurious and welcoming environment on par with a world-class hotel,” said Kim Williamson, CID, ASID, interior design director with AECOM. “Rich, timeless architectural materials combined with lush, elegant accents, custom furniture and dramatic lighting reinforce the hospitality ambiance and create a supportive healing environment for patients and staff.”
Representatives from the AECOM design team accepted the award at a gala held April 19 at the McNamara Alumni Center at the University of Minnesota.
Image(s) courtesy of Charles Crowell / Arabian Pixtures.
