SAN ANTONIO, Texas — BOKA Powell has completed master planning and design work on the first phase of the Forest Park Medical Center San Antonio, a specialty surgical hospital and medical office building slated for completion in mid-2014. Inspired by five-star resorts, the $95-million physician-owned medical center has a hospitality-oriented focus in its design, patient care and amenity offerings.
The four-story, 150,000-square-foot hospital will have 54 beds — including 16 VIP patient suites — 12 operating rooms, two procedure rooms, state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging suites and in-house pharmacy services. The upscale ambiance throughout extends to the large dining facility offering chef-prepared foods, a coffee bar and peaceful outdoor spaces, including self-sustaining green roof systems.
“Our designs are more reflective of a high-end hotel than a typical hospital, with a grand lobby and high-end finishes,” said Sean Kirton, project designer for BOKA Powell. “Rich woods, metals, stone and glass throughout patient rooms and public areas create an immersive luxury experience.”
Patient rooms are designed for maximum comfort, and include couches that convert to queen-size beds for guests. Bathrooms are located directly behind the patient’s bed to reduce the risk of injury due to falls. 
Medical support technology including patient monitoring devices and intravenous connection systems are integrated into an attractive upholstered headboard and hidden when not in use. For additional privacy, VIP suites feature a separate room for family and guests equipped with a kitchenette, entertainment options and a sleeping area.
“Our design reflects the South Texas vernacular, where the building is broken down into scalable pieces and has a more simplified structure as it rises to the sky,” said Don Powell, principal of BOKA Powell. “Interesting, locally sourced materials bring the rugged, natural Hill Country palette into the site, rooting the building into the landscape, while emphasizing a refined and sophisticated style.”
BOKA Powell served as design architect for the Forest Park Medical Center San Antonio, working with the owner and developer, Neal Richards Group. Other project team members include Vibrant Healthcare, operator and Rogers-O’Brien, general contractor.
