Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building
Towson, Md.
Merit Award
Sent by: DPR construction
Owner: Greater Baltimore Medical Center
Main design company: Hord Coplan Power Inc.
General contractor: DPR construction
Civil Engineer: Site Resources
Structural Engineer: Morabito Consultants
MEP Engineer: WSP
Owner Representative and Program Manager: Hammes Healthcare
The first phase of the medical center’s Project Promise, a three-story expansion of the existing hospital, includes a 120,000-square-foot addition that serves as the building’s new main entrance. The light-filled atrium acts as a natural orientation element, guiding visitors to the main corridor and elevators. Modifying the roof design, using stone dust as infill in the atrium, and obtaining alternative elevator manufacturers saved $850,000.
The deep foundations of the 1960s building were located closer to the surface than expected. Bracing of sections was required to support the load, causing a delay. The work was resequenced to accommodate the structural challenges.
The structural overhang of the roof was tied into the building above the occupied hospice wards which had to be vacated before the demolition. Operational changes allowed only two empty rooms at a time. Temporary protection controls water intrusion and noise, with hearing protection provided to patients, families and staff.
The $73 million project was completed in 29 months, on budget and on schedule.
