Brigitte Harris Cancer Pavilion Opens as Global Destination for Seamless, Integrated Cancer Care

The Henry Ford Cancer Institute at Henry Ford Health System recently opened the doors of the new Brigitte Harris Cancer Pavilion, located in Detroit, Michigan. Connected to Henry Ford Hospital by the Nancy Vlasic Skywalk over West Grand Boulevard, the cancer pavilion is a global destination for seamless and integrated cancer care, bringing together the newest and most innovative treatment options including specialty clinics for 14 different types of cancer, precision medicine, clinical trials and supportive services.

All aspects of the building’s design, from the multi-level attached parking deck to its floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the building with natural light, was guided with input from cancer patients, survivors and families.

Designed by SmithGroup and constructed by Turner Construction Co., the pavilion features a third-floor terrace and several quiet meditation spaces, as well as a Healing Arts Gallery and Art Walk. The Healing Arts Gallery will exhibit a rotating collection of paintings, prints, photography and other media produced by patients and emerging metro Detroit artists. The Art Walk features replicas of masterpieces from the Detroit Institute of Arts, part of its Inside|Out program, along the second-floor corridor and across the Nancy Vlasic Skywalk.

The pavilion also features special gathering places for patient and caregiver support groups, yoga classes, music and art therapy. To protect the health of patients, families and staff, in-person classes and gatherings will be on hold due to COVID-19 and will resume once safe to do so.

Food offerings were planned with input from patients, survivors and their families. The Market, designed specifically to cater to the needs of patients undergoing active cancer treatments, provides a broad range of lighter fare and comfort foods, including hot entrées, self-service gourmet beverages, fresh produce and other goods, and gluten-free and vegan options.

The pavilion is the anchor of the Henry Ford Cancer Institute, which comprises more than 1,450 cancer care experts at five hospitals, 11 outpatient facilities and hundreds of aligned doctor’s offices throughout Southeast and Southcentral Michigan.

Photos courtesy Ray Manning.