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TECHNOLOGY & METHODS
A typical patient room at Columbia St. Mary's with views that provide a connection to nature.
> The ceiling contractor identifi ed alternate materials that maintained the style, look and sound-absorption requirements, resulting in sizable savings.
time of extreme price fl uctuation due to heavy demand in China and locally in Milwaukee. > The glass curtainwall installer offered cost-saving strategies that standardized window production while maintaining the owner's desire to fl ood patient fl oors with the healing qualities of light. > Vertical transportation design was modifi ed by the elevator contractor to optimize elevator cab size and speed. > Ductwork design was dis-
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sected by the mechanical contrac- tor to produce the aesthetics and performance required by the owner, including ultra-quiet ventilation on patient fl oors. > The team was able to accom- modate expansions to the scope of work into the existing project schedule. > The electrical contractor worked closely with lighting designers to achieve the desired illumination and serviceability well below the budget.
Most importantly, Columbia St. Mary's achieved its goals of avoid- ing an overbuilt facility, unexpected change orders, budget overruns and scheduling problems. By cultivat- ing constant communication that resulted in effective resolutions, the TMP created a high degree of trust among partners. The TMP also delivered signifi cant transparency in budget adherence with all savings going to the owner. When the project was fi nished, there was not one pay- ment claim for any expanded scope of work.
The total construction costs, excluding the land, came to $259.5 million for the 700,235-square-foot hospital or a little more than $370 a square foot. By consolidating its two hospitals into a nine-story, 312-bed hospital, it is saving $19 million in annual operating costs.
March/April 2012 | Medical Construction & Design 51
