The first of its kind in Iowa, Blank Children’s STAR & Developmental Center offers help and support to local and regional children and youth. INVISION worked closely with UnityPoint Health Des Moines to provide space for both programs to grow. The client needed an inviting but safe space for kids, while also carefully controlling public traffic flow for patient and family safety. Because the needs of the STAR Center patients and Development Center patients differ, each center has designated floors.
Patient-focused design decisions led to additional unique features:
- Quiet rooms for autistic children who are sensitive to sounds and activity
- Wall-mounted interactive activities for children while they wait
- Curved hallways to take away the feeling of a tunnel
- Maximizing daylight around the building’s perimeter
The new, stand-alone facility has a distinct tie-in to Blank Children’s Hospital. INVISION achieved a colorful and playful aesthetic which reflected the unique design of the downtown hospital. With the ever-changing exterior, made possible by interference stainless steel, the facility offers an identifiable and special place for patients and their families.
