Former Parking Structure on Maine Hospital Campus Transforms into 8-Story Patient Tower

MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Portland recently opened its doors to the Malone Family Tower, an eight-story addition to the hospital’s historic campus in Portland, Maine. Ten years in the making, the new campus landmark ushers in 96 patient rooms, 40 pre- and post-surgical beds and 19 procedure rooms.

Located at the site of a former parking structure that had reached the end of its life, the new bed tower allows the hospital to improve patient access to meet the growing demand. Ninety-six universal patient rooms can be transitioned from emergency spaces to longer duration stays as needed. Previously, cardiac care departments were siloed. Now, these spaces are adjacent to minimize the distance between related functions.

A whole-building lifecycle assessment was completed during the design phase to reduce embodied carbon. Material health was prioritized to promote the well-being of patients, staff and practitioners. In addition, successful master planning and scenario testing set a baseline for sustainable growth that will minimize future renovations, reducing lifecycle costs in both construction and environmental impact.

Designers drew inspiration from local topography and tradition. The rugged stone, woods and water of the Maine coastline informed materials choices. A green roof features native flora interspersed with rocky outcroppings, reminiscent of the local landscape. Strategically placed openings in the exterior cladding reveal views of the city and the nearby Fore River; internally, open views into patient rooms from hallways facilitate care and connection.

The project team included Perkins&Will and Turner Construction Company.

Photos by Anton Grassl