The design solution for the Benesse Oncology Center of Major Hospital, located in a certified technology park, addresses the needs of the patient, client, and community. The design meets the challenge of combining the nurturing elements needed in a cancer center with the technology aspects needed in a life-sciences business park.

The first floor provides the latest in medical oncology, radiation oncology, and lymphedema treatment, as well as a laboratory and treatment rooms. Medical office space resides on the second floor.

The exterior of the Benesse Oncology Center commands attention from its prominent location off a major interstate. The architectural vocabulary of various colors of brick, metal panels, and curtainwall communicates advanced technology that respects its location in Intelliplex Park and communicates the high level of cancer treatment within.

Project category: New construction (completed January 2005)

Chief administrator: Anthony Lennen, President and CEO, Major Hospital, (317) 392-3211

Firm: BSA LifeStructures, (317) 819-7878

Design team: Richard Fetz, Principal-in-Charge; Doug Abrams, Project Architect; Andrew Myers, Project Engineer; Richard Berger, Site Design; Scot Heller, Construction Administration (BSA LifeStructures); Interior Design (Maregatti Interiors)

Photography: © Jeff Millies, Hedrich Blessing; Karl Pfeffer, BSA LifeStructures

Total building area (sq. ft.): 47,000

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $161

Total construction cost (excluding land): $7,562,000

That treatment includes a high-speed simulator that feeds high-resolution images directly into computers, and a linear accelerator that emits precise radiation treatment designed to destroy tumors, yet protect healthy tissue. While patients go to Benesse for high-tech healing, they’ll also enjoy the modern comforts inside; hence its name, a Latin phrase that means “comfort and well-being.”

Materials of limestone, wood panels, art glass, and terrazzo floors enhance the overall experience. Amenities in the lobby spaces include a piano, aquarium, and fireplaces. Stained-glass panels separate the eight chemotherapy treatment bays.