Like the north woods and winding rivers of Washburn County, Wis., Spooner Health has grown to be an integral branch of the local landscape. Responding to the shifting health care needs of the local landscape, Spooner Health sought to enhance their emergency and outpatient services by initially inviting BWBR to assist with a master plan. The plan studied department expansions, wayfinding, privacy, and parking. Afterward, the hospital elected to move to a new site northeast of town to serve the hospital’s growth, change, and accelerated healing process.

The new design helps patients “get away” to a soothing place of healing. Seasonally themed departments and natural materials create a familiar, comfortable sense of place that echoes the hospital’s picturesque woodland views. All health care services are located on the main floor for convenience, patient safety, and efficiencies. Key planning components focused on clear wayfinding, locating services off of a main sunlit corridor, and separating off-stage areas from public ones.

Outpatient departments greet visitors at the front entry, while the inpatient wing ushers those with a longer stay into a quieter environment. Many services offer shared treatment space and optional private rooms to foster every kind of healing experience. Built for swift recovery and specialized medicine, alike, Spooner Health’s replacement hospital proudly supports its community’s needs.