Health & Wellness

UnityPoint Health Des Moines Blank Children’s STAR & Developmental Center

West Des Moines, IA

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.

Justin Bailey
Architect

It was an honor to be a part of a project with such a significant and positive impact on the youth in our community and region. Getting to know the facilities staff and truly understand the vital services they provide will forever make this a special project to INVISON.

Other Team Members